Firepool phase two work begins

SWT is pressing ahead with work on the regeneration of its flagship Firepool site, kick starting its economic recovery plans.

Enabling works started this week on the old cattle market site to break up the concrete for infrastructure and utility work.

Work to refurbish the GWR building and bring it back into use, initially as the site office, is due to begin shortly.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, said: “We are making Firepool a top priority in line with our corporate strategy objectives to facilitate development and boost the economy as an enterprising council.

“It is vital as we recover from the effects of Coronavirus that we press ahead with our plans to deliver a quality scheme that not only attracts growth and investment but creates an enjoyable space that reflects our Garden Town status.”

Proposals for the regeneration of Firepool were approved by the Council in June 2019 outlining a framework for delivering the site in blocks for specific uses.

Part of the site has already been brought back in to temporary use with a grassed area and footpath.

Work will also begin shortly to create the boulevard link from the railway station, which is currently being redeveloped with the entrance re-orientated to face into Taunton, allowing direct access through Firepool to the town centre. This cycle way and footpath will be a permanent key feature of the final scheme.

The Council is progressing the planning permission to be achieved through a Local Development Order. This will be available for consultation later in the year.

It is also considering setting up a new company to lead the physical development of the site.

Further details will be available soon.