BUSINESSES are being asked to have their say over plans to build a hotel on Firepool. 

Taunton Deane Borough Council's planning committee decided in March 2018 to grant outline planning consent for a mixed use development at Firepool, including a new hotel.

But the separate decision to build the hotel as a council led commercial venture was deferred in order to consult with local businesses. 

The council has now produced a leaflet with information about the project, the reasons for it and the benefits it is expected to bring. It also explains the wider commercial approach the council is taking and how the proposed hotel investment is part of that. 

Points raised by businesses from the consultation will help to inform the council’s approach to the hotel project and other commercial ventures that the council may develop in the future.

Cllr John Williams, leader of the council said: “The proposed hotel is a key part of our plans for the regeneration of Taunton town centre and could be a huge asset, bringing significant money into the local economy and creating jobs at both the construction and operational stages for local people.

"However we respect that local businesses want to have their say and are keen to hear their opinions through this consultation. Following the departure of St Modwen as the Council’s development partner at Firepool, we are also taking the opportunity to reflect and listen to different ideas coming forward locally in shaping and developing this important town centre site.”

The business consultation will run from Monday October 1 to Wednesday October 31.

All the details and a link to the consultation can be found on the consultation page of council’s website https://www.tauntondeane.gov.uk/consultations/