PROPOSALS for a park and ride scheme east of Taunton will go on show at Ruishton Village Hall on Thursday, September 13.

Staff from Somerset County Council will be on hand to explain the proposals at exhibition, from 10am-9pm, and the public can make their comments.

The facility will serve commuters and shoppers approaching Taunton from the A358 Ilminster direction or from the M5.

A display will also be made at the Old Market Centre, in Taunton, from 10am-5pm on Tuesday, September 25.

Feedback from the public will be taken into account before a planning application is made in the early autumn.

The park and ride facility is planned to open by autumn 2009, with construction likely top start in December 2008.

The project will incorporate cycle and pedestrian facilities as well as a security/information building, which will be constructed with sustainable building materials.

The site will also include a long distance coach drop off/pick up point.

Cllr Hazel Prior-Sankey, Somerset County Council's Portfolio Holder for Transport and Waste, said: "Providing alternative parking is a key element in Project Taunton's vision for the town's regeneration.

"This Park and Ride to the east of Taunton will both complement and build on the western facility at Silk Mills and is part of our commitment to improve access and reduce growth of congestion."

*What are your views on the park and ride proposals? Leave your comments below.