Yeovil Vision
The important South Somerset town of Yeovil is in one of the UK’s fastest growing regions and the Yeovil Vision project reflects the desire for change, by delivering exciting, high-quality regeneration and development projects.
There are currently some 20 diverse projects planned, which include retail, housing, and leisure developments together with improvements to the town’s infrastructure.
Late in 2010 the longawaited improvements to the Reckleford Eastern Gateway project were completed. This major road improvement scheme will act as a catalyst for further regeneration in the eastern end of town.
Among other exciting projects scheduled for 2010 are Foundry House, a landmark building and site, which will be regenerated for mixed-use development and the redevelopment of Milford Community Hall.
Yeovil Vision – whose motto is ‘the heart of the country, the mind of a city’ – is project managed by South Somerset District Council working in partnership with Somerset County Council and Yeovil Town Council. A close working relationship is also maintained with the Galaxy Group, an influential mix of wider public / private stakeholders including Yeovil College, Yeovil District Hospital, Agusta Westland and the Chamber of Commerce.
One of the aims of Yeovil Vision is to foster a team approach to the delivery of regeneration. A practical example of this is the Yeovil Bus Station project. There is a significant opportunity to provide an improved Bus Station / Transport Interchange in Yeovil which, in turn, may release land for town centre regeneration.
Yeovil Vision has commissioned and is leading a feasibility study to consider the opportunities. This ‘Team Yeovil’ approach includes consultants, local authority officers and asset managers working on behalf of the relevant landowner.
The Yeovil Urban Development Framework (UDF) provides potential investors with a clear picture as to how the town is set to grow and develop over the next 20 years. In order to reflect changing economic circumstances the UDF will shortly be refreshed and updated.
It has been suggested that over the next 20 years Yeovil may be expected to accommodate 11,400 new homes. If agreed, the challenge will be to maintain the balance between town and country. It also underlines the importance of planning for the future and demonstrates the clear priority to have a realistic and ongoing vision for the future of the town.
To find out more about the role of Yeovil Vision, its projects, team or partners, visit www.yeovilvision.co.uk or write to Kim Close, South Somerset District Council, Brympton Way, Yeovil, BA20 2HT, or Telephone
