A vital £22 million road scheme in Taunton that will unlock up to £300 million of development opportunities has got the Government’s final go-ahead.
Transport Minister Norman Baker announced this morning that the Northern Inner Distributor Road has got the green light – unlocking access to Taunton’s prime regeneration site at Firepool. St. Modwen, the UK’s leading regeneration specialist, is the development partner of Taunton Deane Borough Council on the £270 million Firepool scheme in Taunton.
Cllr John Williams, Leader of Taunton Deane Borough Council, said the announcement is the best possible news for Taunton – and a huge boost for the wider Taunton Deane economy.
“This is so much more than a road – it the key to unlock our prime development sites at Firepool. This £22 million investment will unlock £300 million of economic development opportunity.
“The delivery of the NIDR is the last piece of the jigsaw that will complete the picture of our ambitious central regeneration plans for Taunton. We have had serious talks with investors but turning interest into action is very much dependent on this road. We can now resume those conversations in the knowledge that we have the road.
“I cannot stress how fantastic this news is – the NIDR is the front door for Firepool and a major new thoroughfare for the town, it will open up redevelopment opportunities for the whole of the centre of Taunton.
“Together with our partners and MP Jeremy Browne we have lobbied relentlessly for funding for the NIDR and I would like to thank everyone for their efforts over recent months. It has culminated in this successful announcement today which I am absolutely delighted about.
“The strength of our case was never in doubt and this reinforces my very strong belief that we must plan and invest for the future.”
The Transport Minister said: “As well as relieving congestion in the town it will also help promote alternative modes of travel to the private car – improving access for pedestrians and vulnerable road users and providing an alternative bus route.
“The £15.2 million we are putting into this scheme shows that the coalition government is serious about investing in the infrastructure the country needs to drive economic growth and cut carbon dioxide emissions.”
The total cost of the road is being met through the Government’s funding, funding from Somerset County Council and developers.
Speaking on behalf of St. Modwen, Pete Davies, Development Manager for St. Modwen in the South West, welcomed the news: “The new road is a crucial piece of infrastructure for Firepool, a major regeneration project that will provide a whole new commercial heart for Taunton town centre.
“With the confirmed delivery of this new road, Firepool’s position as one of the South West’s leading strategic developments is enhanced, with the existing strong links via the motorway and adjacent mainline railway station.
“The development will offer businesses and residents alike a quality environment set alongside the River Tone and within close proximity to the town centre.”
