DAZZLING new designs for the ‘ambitious’ Chard Regeneration project have been revealed - including artists’ impressions of the mooted pool and a video flying through a 3D model of the site.
More than 500 people visited the Guildhall at the weekend to see the unveiling of the latest plans for Chard’s town centre.
A spokesman for South Somerset District Council said: “Following extensive research and guided by suggestions previously made by Chard residents, SSDC has worked with partners to develop an ambitious strategy which will bring significant changes to Chard and the community.”
The scheme’s centrepiece is the regeneration of the Boden Mill site in the centre of the town and it is set to include a new leisure centre and swimming pool, alongside a blend of housing and commercial developments.
“In addition to this, the scheme proposes a number of other measures to boost business in the town, support events and revitalise the market,” the spokesman said.
“The plans began with these initial proposals. They were displayed to hundreds of residents at an event in Chard on June 16, attended by hundreds of residents.
“We had a fantastic response with hundreds of letters, comments and emails.”
Residents’ requests included more open space, more areas to eat and socialise and a community hub.
The SSDC spokesman added: “On Saturday, March 16, we held a second event in Chard which was attended by more than 500 people.
“At this event, we were able to provide more detail on what the site could look like.
“It provides detail of the proposed leisure centre with a swimming pool as well as the library and community hub.
“The leisure centre could also include a soft play area, 60-station gym and a cafe with an external seating area.
“The library and community hub could also feature a small cafe and has the potential to become the new home for Chard Museum.”
A timeline has also been included for development, with phase one of building due to commence in Spring 2020.
For more, email chardregen@southsomerset.gov.uk
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