A MAJOR revamp of Taunton’s former bus station is on the cards and people are being asked what they would like to see at the new transport hub.
The redevelopment of the site – which is being funded by government money – would provide a new lease of life as a vital transport interchange under new proposals and forms part of wider regeneration plans for Taunton.
Proposals include six bus stops in total with two coach stops located along Castle Way, layover bays to provide a dedicated area for buses during layover periods to prevent buses being parked around the town, an indoor waiting room with toilets and a changing places toilet facility with a dedicated accessible parking bay.
The hub is part of Somerset’s Bus Service Improvement plan and will offer a range of modern and sustainable transport options, including bus, coach, and bike parking.
It will also feature attractive public spaces, green areas, as well as links to the town centre and the River Tone.
An online survey has been launched by Somerset Council to gather people’s views on the plans. The survey ends in September.
The proposed plans for the site Picture: Somerset Council
Somerset Council’s lead member for transport and digital, Councillor Richard Wilkins said: “We would urge people to get involved with the survey and take a look at the plans – please tell us what sort of facilities you’d like to see.
“The transport hub is a really welcome development for bus users and those wishing to cycle or walk in Taunton.
“One of our key aims within the Taunton Garden Town Vision is to offer more transport options and by doing so reduce car dependency with increased bus service patronage, helping to create a greener, cleaner town centre.”
In line with Taunton’s Garden Town Vision, the proposal aims to improve transport links in the town, making it easier and more attractive to use public transport and/or walking and cycling.
You can read more about the Garden Town Vision by visiting the website Vision for our garden town (somerset.gov.uk)
Take part in the survey by visiting https://shorturl.at/80bFM
The project for a new vastly improved Taunton Bus Station is well overdue.
This County town has been badly affected since the closure of the old station.
The new development cannot come quick enough for local residents and the wider community. Bring it on!