Plans for former Poundstretcher site revealed
Acorn Homes has revealed proposals to regenerate the vacant former Poundstretcher site in Taunton which would bring forward a development of homes and space for startups and local businesses.
The firm is launching a six-week public engagement exercise to seek feedback on its proposals for the site, which has stood vacant since Poundstretcher closed in 2020.
The site has been earmarked for development in several local planning strategies since 2008. The team leading the project said the proposals would transform this underused brownfield site into a space that revitalises the area around the bridge.
Acorn’s proposals include:
Between 45 and 50 one and two bed apartments.
An active ground floor frontage, with smaller spaces for businesses that could include up to two shops and a cafe.
On the upper floors, there would be additional flexible space for businesses.
A raised communal green space for residents, offering an outdoor area within the town centre.
Improved walking and cycling routes along the riverside, connecting the development to the wider community.
Acorn’s planning director Donna Collier said: “This is an exciting opportunity to breathe new life into a vacant site situated in a highly sustainable location.
“Our ambition is to provide homes and work spaces that meet Taunton’s needs, while supporting local businesses and making this part of the town centre a vibrant, appealing place to live and work.
“As a local business, it’s important to us that any development we’re involved in benefits the community in the long term. This is why we’re seeking people’s input now on our plans for the former Poundstretcher site.”
The project team is in discussions with Somerset Council officers on its plans and intends to submit a planning application for the site after consulting the public.
The consultation into proposals for the site runs from 27 September until midnight on Friday, 6 November. Residents, businesses and stakeholders can find out more about the proposals and participate in the following ways:
Visit Acorn’s website at www.acornhomes.co.uk.
Complete an online survey at https://bit.ly/4dbmLty. Anyone who wishes a hard copy of the survey sending to them can contact 0330 107 0535 and the team will arrange for one to be sent.
Attend a public exhibition into the plans at St James Church, St James Street, Taunton, on 25 October, from 2pm to 7pm.
Contact the team on bridgestreet@distinctivecomms.co.uk or 0330 107 0535.
