Castle Green: Completion

Tuesday, 04 December 2012 15:23

An ambitious scheme to create a town square in the heart of Taunton is about to enter its completion phase.

The major part of Castle Green was completed earlier this year and officially opened by HRH the Earl of Wessex and is already coming into its own as a central and spacious events venue in the run-up to Christmas.

Now Project Taunton, working with Taunton Deane Borough Council and Somerset County Council, is preparing to complete the scheme with the aim of it being open and ready for use next summer.

Work involves closing Castle Way and extending the paving and landscaping up to the Mecca Bingo building. This would remove traffic from Castle Green, leaving an access-only route for adjoining businesses.

Planning consent was granted for the overall scheme and the main features of the project – the extensive grass and paving, seating and landscaping – were completed earlier this year. Work on the whole scheme was staggered to allow time to find suitable alternatives for buses using Castle Way.

New bus stops for east and west bound vehicles will be built in Corporation Street while the existing taxi rank would be moved to a more convenient site in Hammet Street where there is more space available for cabs outside normal working hours. Click here to view.

Bus and taxi operators are being informed of the proposals – the taxi rank opposite the bus station will not be changed.

Britannia, the contractors who delivered the first phase, will be returning for on-site works while off-site works – the new bus stops – will be carried out by Somerset County Council’s contractors.

Cllr John Williams, Leader of Taunton Deane Borough Council, said: “This will be the final piece of what has been a very complex jigsaw puzzle which will truly complete the restoration of this historic square.

“I welcome it and the facility it offers for Taunton and if the recent so successful “fun day” and light switching on ceremony is anything to go by our plans for a successful and vibrant town centre square was a reality.

“I was really delighted to see so many people enjoying themselves and their presence contributing towards increased footfall for our town centre traders. Various organisations have come together with the Council to ensure a busy programme through to Christmas, I applaud this and wish them every success.”

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