Regeneration specialist St Modwen says outline plans for its £270m Firepool development in central Taunton have been given the green light from the Borough Council’s planning committee.
St Modwen is the development partner of Taunton Deane Borough Council on the scheme with will transform the 4.5 acre Priory Rd car park into new office and residential space.
St Modwen will now work up more detailed designs to build 113,000 sq ft of office space, with an option of a hotel, as well as up to 49 apartments as part of the first phase of development for the wider 17 acre riverside site.
Borough Council Leader, Cllr John Williams, said: “This is a momentous occasion – the start of the largest regeneration programme of any town centre in the South West and is a huge vote of confidence by our development partners, St Modwen, in this strategic employment site.
“It is so well placed, next to the main line railway station, in a wonderful riverside setting and very close to the town centre.
“It is a much needed boost for Taunton’s economy, particularly in these difficult times and I welcome it.”
Pete Davies, development manager for St Modwen, said: “This is very positive news for Taunton’s town centre.
“We are already progressing plans to build the first office building at the site and this announcement shows the Council’s commitment to the development as a major new build office scheme supporting the town and county’s growth.”
nathan.cross@estatesgazette.com
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