People attending this weekend’s Midsomer Norton Fayre, which starts at 12 noon on Saturday, will have the opportunity to have their say on plans for the town’s Park, as well as having a fun-packed afternoon out. The event area has been cleared of scrub, the grass cut and diggers are busy creating a temporary entrance so that local people can see for themselves the open space so close to the town centre.
It has been an aspiration for almost forty years to create a large green space in the town for general leisure and recreation and as a place to hold large events. With the Council’s purchase of land south of the River Somer last year, residents, stakeholders and interested groups have been asked for their views on the design.
Town Mayor, Cllr Paul Myers, said: “The aim is to create a practical space for people of all ages to use, which respects the land’s existing wildlife, topography and views. This is a unique opportunity for local people to help shape the Park, which will be enjoyed for generations to come. Working in partnership with B&NES Council, as a Town Council we want to get the development of the Park right first time, and I would urge everyone to come and share their views.”
The Town Council’s vision for the Town Park includes a number of requirements, including enhancement of the River Somer and Conservation Area, provision of an event space to attract visitors, a natural haven for wildlife, offering a connection between communities, opportunities for walking, cycling and other healthy exercise and overall act as a place for younger people to enjoy.
The Town Fayre provides an excellent example to see how the Park could provide a new and exciting event space for the town. The event will start with the Maypole Dance Festival with over 100 local school-children taking part in the main arena outside the Somer Centre, followed by other community group displays through the afternoon. The now traditional Town Show will display the many talents of local people. Other attractions include a climbing wall, bouncy castles, face painting, Punch and Judy, street organ, balloon modelling, music workshops and more.
Inside the Somer Centre will be displays of Art and Photography, as well as the popular Tea Room with delicious cakes and sandwiches. There will be plenty of time to sit and chat and also welcome the fantastic Tom Carradine, who will present one of his Cockney Singalongs.
Following this weekend’s final consultation on the Park, a detailed masterplan will be drawn up. It will set out the final requirements, taking affordability, feasibility and relative priorities of the proposals into account. The masterplan will then provide the basis for a programme of work, with development phased with funding. It is anticipated, subject to planning consent, for work on developing the Park to begin later this year.