FRESH proposals for a multi-million pound homes, pubs, restaurants, cinema and offices development could soon be submitted - despite calls to sack the company behind it.

A previous planning application for Taunton's derelict Firepool site was rejected last month amid claims it was like a "retail park", would have harmed existing traders and had little interest from potential occupiers.

The LibDem opposition on landowner Taunton Deane Borough Council is calling for the authority to 'go it alone' or to replace its development partner St Modwen.

The group has issued a statement saying: "We should question whether St Modwen has performed satisfactorily and ascertain if we should change partners or go it alone as we are doing in Coal Orchard, next to the Brewhouse.

"We should change the mix of businesses and ensure that consideration is given to the future of the town centre.

"We want a vibrant river frontage and good communication links with rail, public transport and ease of movement of traffic.

"We are duty bound to keep ahead of the game and weigh up what the public thinks with the desire to bring forward a scheme which shows distinctly how we value the long-term prospects for Taunton."

The LibDems have launched a survey asking people what they would like to see at Firepool - click here to have your say here.

They are also calling in a motion to full council on Tuesday to "reconsider the mix of buildings and businesses to reflect changing circumstances".

Their statement added: "The planning application failed because no business has signed up to the mediocre plans and the shocking disregard for linking in with other developments within the town.

"There is no Waitrose, no entertainment group likely to sign up for a multiplex cinema, no hotel, no acknowledged businesses willing to come.

"We have nothing to lose than the prospect of a boring retail park and a hectare of cars on one of the prime sites available in Taunton. Let’s have a restart for the county town of Somerset.”

Deane House leader Cllr John Williams (Conservative) said the council has been working with St Modwen, which hopes to submit a fresh application addressing concerns about the layout of the scheme "within a few months".

He added: "Constructive discussions are under way with the Design Review Panel (an independent planning advisory body) and the council’s appointed retail advisers, to ensure that the revised application, when submitted, reflects the best possible design outcome that is complementary to the existing town centre.

"There are a wide range of occupiers interested in coming to Firepool across the whole range of uses proposed.

"All occupiers in the potential mix are vital to the success of the scheme, but none will be in a position to make any firm commitment until a planning consent is achieved.

"The wide range of uses proposed for the scheme is an advantage in changing market conditions, reducing an over-dependence on any one occupier for success.

"With the enhancement of Taunton Railway Station and the regeneration of the Coal Orchard site coming forward, there is now every opportunity for a revised Firepool planning application to fulfil the gateway potential for this site."

St Modwen declined to comment.