Date Published: 

Wed, 24/10/2012
drawign of proposed plan

Planning permission for Bath & North East Somerset Council’s regeneration of Keynsham town centre was granted today (24.10.12) by the Development Control Committee.

The Council’s construction delivery partner Willmott Dixon have already started on site stripping out the existing buildings to prepare for demolition. It is anticipated the scheme will take two years to build, planning to complete in Autumn 2014.

The scheme includes new space for shops and restaurants, new library and One Stop Shop for local public sector services, new streets and spaces for markets and events, and low carbon sustainable Council offices.

Councillor David Bellotti (Lib-Dem, Lyncombe), Cabinet Member for Community Resources, said, “This scheme will bring new jobs, greater prosperity, and an improved look and feel to Keynsham. It is excellent news that momentum is generating for this project following the approval of these plans as Bath & North East Somerset Council works in partnership with the local community to breathe new, vibrant life into Keynsham.”

Councillor Paul Crossley (Lib-Dem, Southdown), Leader of Council, added, “The revamp of the centre is one part of our overall plans for the town which include the redevelopment of Somerdale and the Riverside building that the Council will vacate. A vastly improved town centre will encourage private sector investment into Keynsham resulting in new jobs, new homes and opportunities for local people.”

The Council had listened carefully to the views of around 2,000 people who attended three exhibitions held over the past year and the comments made by members on the Development Control Committee in August. This resulted in changes to the scheme, such as the roof design and reduction in the area of brass used, which subsequently received the approval of Keynsham Town Council.

Options and negotiations for the demolition and redevelopment of the Riverside building are continuing. Ideas are being explored for a range of uses for the site and particularly housing, including town houses and retirement living for older people. There will be consultation with the community in the Autumn before any decision on the future of the site.

Work continues to be developed on a highways scheme to help improve access and reduce congestion. Options for a replacement swimming pool are also being progressed.

For more information go to www.bathnes.gov.uk/keynshamregen

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