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Have your say on initial ideas for key sites

During the first phase of engagement, local people identified four key locations in the town centre which they thought could be given a new lease of life. We’d now like to think more about what these sites could be used for in future.

IMAGINE… if the Old Brewery buildings were restored to their former splendour

A brewery complex once dominated the high street skyline. Originally built in 1839, the Smith’s Brewery buildings have had a long and vibrant life not only as a brewery but as a public hall, boot factory, theatre, library and dance hall (the much-loved ‘Bob’s Palais’). Today, the site is made up of yard spaces and shops, although several are vacant. Some of the historic structures, including the striking brewery chimney, are still visible.

Questions

1. What would you like to see more of in this area?






2. To what extent do you agree that the Old Brewery buildings are an important heritage landmark in the town centre?






IMAGINE… if the Hollies was a more welcoming and inclusive space

The Hollies was at one time a grand house in 10 acres of parkland. In the 1930s the building became council offices, while the gardens were opened to the public - many local people have fond memories of leisure time spent in this special place. Today, the area is home to Midsomer Norton Library, offices, shops and cafes and a town centre supermarket. The Hollies Garden hosts Farmers Markets and other community events.

Questions

3. How often do you visit the Hollies area of the high street (the buildings and/or gardens)?






4. For what purpose do you normally visit the Hollies area of the high street?








IMAGINE… if the Old Gasworks buildings were given a new lease of life

The Midsomer Norton Gasworks, which were located on what is now South Road Car Park, were constructed during the town’s industrial heyday. Originally there would have been a coke crusher, coal store, purifiers and condenser and scrubbers. Today, just the retort house, which housed the main manufacturing equipment, remains. One of the last visible links to the town’s coal mining era in the town centre, it has stood empty for several years.

Questions

5. What would you like to see more of in this area?






6. To what extent do you agree that the Old Gasworks buildings are an important heritage landmark in the town centre?






IMAGINE… if the two ends of the high street were better connected

Midsomer Norton high street is over a kilometre long, divided into two distinct halves where it meets Excelsior Terrace by narrow pavements, parking and a wide junction. Until the mid nineteenth century, more of the River Somer was visible along this stretch – it is now covered over by car parking. Today, it is an important junction, being the main connecting pedestrian route between the high street and leisure centre, town park and Greenway.

Questions

7. When visiting the high street, which end do you most often visit?




8. To what extent do you agree that uncovering an additional stretch of the river would improve the environment around the Excelsior Terrace junction?






IMAGINE… a more pedestrian-friendly town centre

Draft spatial plan for Midsomer Norton Town Centre

Draft spatial plan for Midsomer Norton Town Centre - click to enlarge

Question

9. In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle to visiting Midsomer Norton town centre on foot or by bicycle?