South Somerset District Council has announced a public consultation on proposals to regenerate Chard. Following research and high level feasibility assessments, an ambitious strategy has been developed which will bring exciting changes to Chard and the community. The focus of the consultation will be an event to be held at The Guildhall on Saturday 16 June between 10am and 1pm (3 hours). Residents and businesses will also be able to view proposals on line (www.southsomerset.gov.uk).
The scheme focuses on regenerating the Boden Mill site in the centre of the town, and includes a range of uses that will be revealed as part of the consultation. In addition, the scheme proposes a number of other measures to boost business in the town, support events and revitalise the market. At the public consultation, members of the public can hear more about the scheme, explore the core elements through visual aids and give feedback on the proposed changes.
Jeb Farrah (MBA) has also been announced as Project Manager for the scheme, and will oversee the development and implementation in Chard’s town centre. Ms Farrah has a wealth of experience managing successful, large-scale projects on behalf of the public and voluntary sector, which includes housing delivery programmes and construction projects.
Councillor Jo Roundell Greene, Portfolio Holder for Environment & Economic Development, stated, “Our aim for the Chard regeneration scheme is to revitalise the town and encourage more people to visit, boosting the local economy and creating more opportunities for residents. It is important to us that the scheme is driven by clear and tangible benefits to the community, and the public consultation event will be an excellent opportunity for people to hear more about what this will entail and to provide feedback on some of the proposed changes.”
Alex Parmley, South Somerset District Council’s Chief Executive, said, “This redevelopment is about so much more than just the physical changes. We want to create a vibrant town centre that brings people back to Chard and benefits the whole community. The scheme has the interests of the residents at its heart and we look forward to hearing their views on these exciting new proposals.”
The public consultation event will take place between 10am-1pm on Saturday 16 June at The Guildhall, Fore Street, Chard, Somerset TA20 1PP. There will be a children’s area available with resources from the library, for families who wish to attend. Those who cannot make the event can view the proposals and submit feedback via the website from Saturday 16 June, or use the suggestion box at The Guildhall.