Town Centre High Street Scheme Completed

Now the dust has settled, locals and visitors to Bridgwater can enjoy the benefits of the High Street improvements

The sun has been shining on the revamped High Street and shoppers have been out enjoying the new look town centre. The wider pavements are making life easier for shoppers and many have taken advantage of the seats to take a break and watch the world go by. Soon the trees will break into leaf and provide a little shade from the summer sun. The trees are "Gledista" or Honey Locust which are native to North America. The variety we have used is called ‘Sunburst’ because the young leaves are bright yellow turning to dark green as they age. The foliage of these trees is particularly attractive and will provide a handsome feature on the High Street.

A safety audit of the completed scheme was an important recent task, carried out by an independent surveyor, the report showed that the scheme fared well. A number of minor points were recorded which are now being dealt with. The surveyor was particularly asked to look at the raised kerbs at the bus stops and the recommendations to make this safer are being considered. We are investigating issues raised by the new traffic orders.

It has always been accepted that a major project like this would take time to settle down and for any problems that arose to be resolved. Certainly the improved appearance and ease of movement in the town centre has made a big impact. It is hard to remember how poor the old pavements were, particularly on the South side of the High Street.

Yes, the scheme has had its problems and its critics - and some of the faults seemed to take a long time to get fixed, but in less than a year the whole image of the town centre has been transformed for the better. Work will now continue on some of our important historic buildings including our "Jewel in the Crown" the Cornhill. Architects are being appointed to draw up a scheme of improvements to make the Cornhill the star feature of the town centre.

Meanwhile, in the town centre we can look forward to a summer with various activities and events using the additional space created, the provision of floral displays, additional seats, and new signs. Discussions continue between the Council and their consultants and contractors for the scheme over the delays and quality of work including some remedial work required on the road surface.

Town Centre Manager Wendy White, said "Retailers have been very patient through the difficult period when works were under way. I know Sedgemoor District Council have been unhappy at the time it took but now it is complete we can all enjoy the benefits".

Jon Blake, Corporate Director, Sedgemoor District Council 01278 435758

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