TAUNTON Town Council has still not received a response from Somerset Council about the potential sale of a “vital” car park.
The High Street car park at the Old Pig Market in Taunton is one of several assets proposed for disposal by Somerset Council.
But there has been stiff opposition to the proposals, with more than 1,800 signatures calling on the local authority to halt the sell off.
Now Taunton Town Council has urged Somerset Council not to make “any irreversible decisions” about the sale of the car park and has offered to meet with representatives to explore options.
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In a public question submitted on February 3, 2025, Taunton Town Council said: “On 20th November, Taunton Town Council wrote to the Executive of Somerset Council to express strong opposition to the proposed disposal of a key car park. This letter, which followed a motion passed at our Full Council meeting in November, requested an urgent response.”
“Despite follow-up attempts, we have yet to receive a reply. Our concerns are supported by significant community opposition, demonstrated by a petition with over 1,700 signatures.”
According to Taunton Town Council, the “car park in question plays a vital role in supporting the local economy and providing safe, accessible parking for residents and visitors.”
“Its loss would have a detrimental impact on businesses, community activities, and overall vibrancy, while also reducing access for vulnerable groups who rely on convenient parking facilities.”
The town council also commented that it believed “collaborative discussions could identify alternative solutions that safeguard the long-term interests of the community.”
“Options such as improved management or income-generating partnerships should be fully explored before making any irreversible decisions.”
It follows the news last month that Somerset Council confirmed it “is still looking at selling this asset and is waiting for pre-application advice from planning colleagues to inform us as to what alternative uses may be acceptable on this site.”
The local authority added that, “until that advice is received, we cannot make a decision as to whether to market the site or to look at any other options.”
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