THE regeneration of the Taunton Town Centre quite understandably has been the subject of a great amount of discussion, debate – and controversy.

The latest problem is the future of Coal Orchard, home to the Brewhouse, close to the County Ground a few yards away from the prime retail area of the town centre.

It is identified as part of “the Cultural Quarter” with its riverside frontage.

Most of its ownership is in the hands of Taunton Deane Borough Council (TDBC) who you would think would have clarity of vision for planning its future now St James Swimming Pool has closed.

However, as the Liberal Democrat Shadow Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, which includes the Cultural and Arts role, I detect the council seems to be sending out mixed messages.


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Last year, in its budget, TDBC granted £10,000 for Arts Taunton to conduct a survey on how to promote the Brewhouse into becoming a true Arts Centre and possibly increase its seating capacity to 500 or 600 (It is widely recognised that its current seating of 360 is inadequate).

This year in its budget, passed on February 23, it continued to reduce its grant to the very same Brewhouse by £11,200!

In the meantime, we are aware that shortly a plan will be submitted for replacing the St James Pool with an orthodox mix of retail shops with housing above which will dominate the skyline and inhibit the setting of the Brewhouse and cramp its Listed Building status and take up to half of the whole site.

I am scratching my head over this. It is a confusing picture and what the County Town of Somerset deserves is clarity of thought, process and a holistic approach towards this vital area which could make or break the long-term future for the town.

I appreciate that there is always a desire “to do something”, but the damage that the planning application, if accepted, could mean we are back onto the treadmill of “short term gain – long term loss” for our proud County Town.

Please may we have a pause for further consideration.

COUNCILLOR JEFFERSON HORSLEY
The Avenue
Taunton