SOMERSET residents are set to see a series of changes to one county town centre as part of a multi-million regeneration scheme.

The Triangle is set to be transformed as part of Yeovil Refresh, in a bit to make the space more attractive to residents, visitors and businesses.

Here are five key changes to the area that you will see once work is completed:

Amphitheatre seating

An SSDC spokesman said: "We want to make The Triangle an entertainment area for anyone to enjoy so we will be creating amphitheatre seating around a water feature, raised stage area and large screen.

"The seating area provides the perfect opportunity for anyone to take a break from shopping and take in the entertainment provided in this area or stop for a bite to eat.

"We are also going to be providing accessible route access to the area so everyone can enjoy The Triangle."

Focal water feature

"Imagine Brewery Square in Dorchester – but better," said SSDC.

"The Triangle will offer a newly installed water feature in the town centre which can be turned on and off depending on the use of the area. We want this space to feel modern, fresh and fun."

Raised stage area

The council is going to be creating a raised stage area so that entertainment can take place at The Triangle.

They added: "We see this public realm space a key area for people to gather, socialise and have fun whilst in the town.

"There are many shops and restaurants for people to visit and enjoy and adding entertainment will only enhance the experience in Yeovil town."

Big screen

This has been added to plans after initial consultation found many people wanted a big screen for promotion and to use for events. The district council will be able to display key information to the public whilst also providing a space for people to congregate and watch events. The Triangle will offer the perfect location for this in the town centre.

Natural stone paving and ornamental planting

The SSDC spokesman added: "We can’t just put a fantastic new shiny amphitheatre seating area, water feature and big screen in The Triangle area without making sure that the rest of the public realm area is tidied up as well, so we will be using natural stone paving to fit in with the new facilities provided and also using ornamental planting to bring some greenery to the area."

There are a total of six areas of Yeovil town centre which will see changes including Westminster Street, The Borough, upper Middle Street (including Wine Street), Middle Street (East), Middle Street (West) and The Triangle.

Work is scheduled to start in early February and will be completed in a phased approach over a few years as the council works to keep the town centre running while the construction is delivered, beginning with Westminster Street.

Councillor Peter Gubbins, executive member for Yeovil Refresh, said: “I’m really excited about the Triangle.

"This is a space that has been under-utilised for many years as, but now we are going to be providing an area which can be used for many different things and an area which will be attractive and appealing for people to use.

"We are delivering on what people asked for in this area and can’t wait for it to be finished and fully functioning as a new focal point in the town centre.”

Andrew Clancy is the managing director of Coreus, who have been working with SSDC on Quantity Surveying, project management support and the public realm designs.

He said: “As a South Somerset resident, I am so pleased to be supporting SSDC in project and cost management works for the regeneration of Yeovil. The public realm works will regenerate the town and in a post Covid world help attract inward investment and economic development."

 

For more information on the project, visit www.yeovilrefresh.co.uk.