QUESTIONS have been asked about the £4.5million bill to renovate two public areas in Taunton.

Independent district councillor Ian Morrell labelled the £954,000 Somerset Square scheme and the planned £3.5million Castle Green improvements “grossly overpriced”.

Somerset Square, outside The Brewhouse, includes ‘hard landscaping’, reinforced concrete substructure, flood barrier, seats and planters and improved access to the theatre.

Funding came from Project Taunton, Taunton Deane Council, developers of the County Ground flats and Government Growth Points cash.

Castle Green – opposite Taunton Castle, which is undergoing a £multi-million transformation – will host markets, events and entertainment and includes a bridge linking to Goodland Gardens.

Mr Morrell said: “I’m astonished by the cost – I’m not sure it’s value for money.

“At Somerset Square there are things like £660 for photocopying and £1,536 for a manhole cover.

“At Castle Green, the council will lose £100,000 annually in revenue from the grassed over car park and there will be a £22,000 annual maintenance bill.

“I’m not suggesting anything untoward, but it’s grossly overpriced. The money would be better spent on High Street.”

A Project Taunton spokesman said: “We’re committed to improving the town centre with high quality schemes which will provide long-term benefits for the people who live and work here.

“Somerset Square is just one of a number of projects along the River Tone.

“They’ll all improve accessibility to the river with better footpaths, cycle routes and careful landscaping.

“The public open space improvements in Castle Green will not only create an attractive place for people to enjoy, but also significantly improve links across town.”