THE Coal Orchard Car Park off Taunton town centre has been closed this week ahead of a multi-million pound redevelopment.

Survey work, including archaeological investigations, are being carried out, with commuters barred from parking there until 5pm on Saturday.

A Taunton Deane Council spokeswoman said: "This is essential preparatory work in advance of the planned regeneration of the area."

Motorists are being advised top use other nearby car parks, including Canon Street, Wood Street and Belvedere Road.

The closure comes during the busy pantomime season at The Brewhouse Theatre.

Teams of workers and a number of vans have been on site since Tuesday.

In June last year, plans for shops, work spaces, restaurants, flats and public areas at the riverside site were approved by Taunton Deane Borough Council.


READ MORE: Plans for redevelopment of Coal Orchard get the go-ahead


The outline plans will see St James Street swimming pool demolished to make way for 36 new homes and restaurants, cafes and workspaces on the riverside.