The historic core of Midsomer Norton and Welton was designated as a Conservation Area in April 2004. Its character has recently been reviewed by B&NES Council, and a public consultation is taking place between 30th May and 8th July 2017 (see notice below).

In summary, the views of the local community are being sought on the draft Conservation Area Character Appraisal and accompanying management proposals, as well as eight proposed changes to the Conservation Area boundary.

A Conservation Area is defined as an ‘area of special architectural or historic interest, the character and appearance of which it is desirable to preserve and enhance.’ B&NES, as a Council, has a duty to preserve and enhance the character and appearance of conservation areas in exercising its planning powers, and to periodically reappraise its boundaries to provide a consistent and sound basis on which planning and other applications are determined in the area.

As part of this process, Local Planning Authorities are encouraged by Government to carry out character appraisals of their Conservation Areas. The idea is that reviewing boundaries and identifying features, which contribute toward the special interest and character of the area, and those that detract from it, provide a basis for developing management proposals for its preservation and enhancement.

Possible enhancements being consulted on include:

• The opportunity for a new town centre traffic management scheme;

• Improved pedestrian and cyclist links;

• Improving the appearance of South Road;

• Addressing the poor condition of some sections of footpath in the High Street;

• Environmental improvement schemes, including the public space at The Island outside the Town Hall and Church Square;

• Promoting a shopfront and signage improvement pilot scheme;

• Planting schemes to screen and soften the appearance of car parks.

There will be a Consultation Evening at 7.30 p.m. on Wednesday, 31st May at the Town Hall hosted by a partnership of the Midsomer Norton Society and B&NES Council. Then, on Saturday, 3rd June, there will be a drop-in event at the Town Hall between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to see the proposals, ask questions of the B&NES officers and give comments. Both events are open to the general public.

The full version of the appraisal is available online by going to: www.bathnes.gov.uk/caca-midsomernorton

Hard copy versions can be viewed at the Town Hall or Library in Midsomer Norton.