THE second phase of work to make Chard's historic town centre a better place for workers, locals and visitors is underway.

Phase one of the High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) completed in Fore Street and Holyrood Street in February has seen several architectural and aesthetic improvements, with public spaces and shopfront enhancements.

Tired concrete paving and kerbs have been widened and replaced with natural stone and the rills have been repaired with Blue Lias stone, in-keeping with the character of the town and creating a safer, more attractive and accessible environment for pedestrians.

Other completed projects, jointly funded by Somerset Council - previously by the former South Somerset District Council - include new paving near the Guildhall band and the first phase of restoration of the Upper Fore Street paving following emergency works by National Grid.

Phase two is well underway, focussing on the renovation and repair of historic shopfronts and buildings, thanks to grants from the HSHAZ scheme.

Rebecca Barrett, regional director at Historic England, said: “We’re excited to see this phase of works getting underway in Chard’s historic town centre, a designated conservation area with over 50 listed buildings.

“The shopfront renovations to Barron’s, on Holyrood Street, the first town centre building to be awarded a building improvement grant from HSHAZ, shows what a difference repairing historic features can make.

“Passers-by, as they look up, can see the dormer windows restored with their new finials, refurbished gutters and a beautifully repainted shopfront.

"Later in the year the building will see a new retractable canopy to create shade and add charm and character.

“Over the coming weeks, further small projects will start on Holyrood Street and Fore Street, including the repainting of the Grade II-listed railings and gates at the front of the mid-19th century Baptist Chapel on Holyrood Street.”

Cllr Ros Wyke, executive lead member for economic development, planning and assets at Somerset Council, said: “It’s exciting to see this next phase of works taking place in Chard.

“The project will see renovations to a further four properties in the coming weeks and another four buildings later this year.

“It’s important that our high street heritage is looked after so it can be preserved and enjoyed by all for years to come.”