AS PART of the High Street Heritage Action Zone, the final major works to the Chard High Street public realm began this week (Monday, September 26).

Contractors, Alun Griffiths, have commenced work on Fore Street to ensure that the area meets the council’s original specification.

After listening to local businesses and residents, the Chard Regeneration Board agreed on September 14 that, rather than rectify the gradient on Fore Street, the area will be returned to tarmac.

This work is the final stage of the public realm regeneration, with only minor tasks still to be completed.

It follows the completed improvement work to Holyrood Street, Boden Street, and the Eastern Gateway, which included:

• Repaving the pavements with natural stone - enhancing the historic character of the town and its Conservation Area;
• Improving the setting of heritage features, including the unique water rills;
• Widening the pavements in key locations to increase accessibility and safety;
• Planting new trees and flower beds;
• Decluttering street furniture;
• Creating new cycle parking and seating areas.

The newly refurbished Stringfellow sculpture has recently been reinstated.

A site visit will take place this week to address any potential issues to be rectified. This work will take place over the upcoming weeks.

A South Somerset District Council spokesperson said: “We understand that the disruption has caused some inconvenience and frustration.

“We would like to thank local businesses, residents, and visitors for their cooperation, understanding, and patience during this time.”

Portfolio holder for Chard Regeneration, Cllr Jason Baker, said; “It is fantastic to see the final improvement works to Chard high street taking place; it is a major step towards making Chard a better place to work, live and visit.

“It is also great to hear of the kindness and positivity shown to the onsite construction workers throughout this process, including the ‘badges of honour’ received from pupils of Chard School and the compliments of the workers’ lovely singing voices.

“I am looking forward to celebrating the completion of the works and providing Chard residents with a town centre to feel proud of and a place where communities can come together.”

Rebecca Barrett, Regional Director at Historic England, said: “The near completion of the public realm improvements in Chard is a moment to celebrate.

“The high street has a wealth of distinctive features including the historic rills – or watercourses – which have now been skilfully restored.

"The project has created a vibrant and people-friendly space, which we hope will be enjoyed for generations to come.”

The next phase of the Chard Regeneration is now underway, with the first High Street Heritage Action Zone Building Repair and Shop Front Improvement Grants currently being agreed.

This, along with the success of ongoing Culturally Chard events and the popularity of the new leisure centre, will further add to the rejuvenated environment and increase footfall and business in the historic town centre.

For more information on the Chard Regeneration Project, including the public realm works, Building Repair and Shop Front Grant, and the Culturally Chard events, visit the website: www.chardregeneration.co.uk/