Cllr Alan Wedderkopp hopes to bring artwork to Wood Street site

Cllr Alan Wedderkopp, who represents Comeytrowe, started his search for artwork to enhance Taunton around two years ago. He approached local artists to 'brighten up' an eyesore corner of the town.

The hoarding on Tangier Way has since become a canvas for artists to display their work for free. He now hopes to do the same for the boards surrounding the old Lidl site on Wood Street.

Some of the artwork along Tangier. 

"I've always been a fan of graffiti," he said.

"I've always thought of it as art.

"The idea started around 18 months to two years ago, I don't think there's been any complaints about it. Actually, there was one once - but that was someone complaining that the artwork was being defaced.

"Tangier has been a success, the flimsy material that is often used on construction sites becomes weak with the weather and is an eyesore for local people. I wanted to bring some life into the street and make use of a canvass that can be viewed by all.

Churchill Retirement Living has submitted a planning application to Taunton Deane to develop the Wood Street site into 72 apartments for the elderly.

A decision is expected next month.

Cllr Wedderkopp says Churchill has given the go-ahead for the artwork on the hoarding. The current boarding is not ideal for the art and he hopes the peeling-away structure will soon be replaced.

He added: “Development sites should not be an eyesore but should enhance Taunton with colour and art to create a welcoming and positive image of our County Town to visitors and residents alike.

"I hope to create more opportunities for local artists to showcase their work and replace the drab construction barriers with a celebration of what Taunton has to offer.”

Artists looking to get involved in the new project should email awedderkopp@somerset.gov.uk.