SOUTH SOMERSET NEWS: Multi-million pound project moves closer

PLANS for a massive £20million regeneration of a town centre in South Somerset have taken another big step towards becoming a reality.

A development agreement for the transformation of the former ACI/Boden Mill site in Chard has now been signed by South Somerset District Council and developers Henry Boot PLC.

This is a negotiated legal agreement that paves the way for the regeneration of the centre of Chard and represents a significant stage in the proposed £20-plus million pound investment that will help secure a successful future for the town.

The comprehensive 3.5 acre development on the former factory site and the adjacent Market Fields and Boden Street Car Parks is planned to include a major new foodstore, four new shop units for other leading names in retailing, replacement car parking, additional homes close to the town centre and a new venue for public events.  Not least the scheme is expected to generate up to 320 new jobs for the town.

The next steps for Henry Boot Development include the negotiation of an ‘end-user’ agreement with an operator for the foodstore and detailed planning approval for the whole development.

Both Henry Boot and the council are now confident that the project is well and truly underway.

Once completed, the development will offer a much wider choice of shopping facilities to help Chard retain shoppers in the town and attract visitors from further afield.

PHOTOS: Artist impressions of the planned regeneration of Chard town centre.

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