High Street Patchwork
Wednesday, 19 October 2011 14:38
The de-cluttering works in Taunton's High Street are coming to an end to allow shoppers and businesses a clear run up to Christmas.
There seems to be some confusion about what’s been going on in the High Street and what if anything is to happen in the future. For example, the other day I overheard a conversation between a couple of shoppers who were appalled at the patchwork solution of paving where just a couple of weeks ago stood a tree in a planter. Thankfully, I was able to get chatting to them and explain that what they thought was a permanent solution, was indeed temporary.
Then a day or two later, I took a phone call from a local who is also a member of The Tree Council. She was horrified that perfectly healthy trees were being removed from the High Street and wouldn’t be replaced. In this instance we had a conversation about the longer-term plan for the High Street and the opportunity for the public to have their say - to make a real difference, over the two days 21 and 22 October. Greening the High Street in some form or another is very much ‘on the cards’ and I was also able to urge her to visit Longrun Meadow to witness the significant tree planting in that area.
In summary, the work that’s just coming to an end is only the beginning. The Street Carpet event, at which you can contribute your thoughts of the past and present and your aspirations for the future, will contribute to the masterplanning work . Finally, keep visiting this webpage and I’ll do my best to keep you up to date.
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Point taken. I do my best, single handed, I just wish there were more hours in the day.
The High Street project has been reported in local and regional press and media inc. BBC. Our architects, Reed Holland have been brilliant and as well as visiting all businesses in the area, individually, have held group discussion meetings in advance of the de-cluttering works. We've publicised the event for the public widely too (press nad poster campaign). I hope you'll come along with your 'two penn'w'th'.
Re the trees and Longrun Meadow. This is just a demonstration of our drive to 'green' Taunton in the most appropriate ways, and you must surely agree that the Meadow is the most fantastic space for a walk in the country, just a spit away from the town centre.
To be honest though, they do seem to lack a bit of style when you look at the use of black and white Victorian style vignettes for staff photos.....
Keep up the good work.
Regards
Taunton Tim
Just read this piece about the "confusion" amongst the public you've come across.....this can't really be their fault but yours -surely this shows you need to up your game on your external communications. Relying on eavesdropping and incoming phone calls seems a bit passive.
Having looked at Longrun Meadows I see it's just that - meadows with trees. I can't quite see the point of directing someone to Longrun Meadows to see what tree planting looks like.
The Timeline on the website only gives Castle Green and The Museum....what about the other key projects? When are they due to start and end?
Keep up the good work.
Regards
Taunton Tim
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