Radstock Co-operative Society is calling for support for new plans to transform its flagship Radco site in the town, with a stark warning that if the amended version is thrown out by the B&NES’ planning committee, it cannot guarantee the future of the site. The Society celebrated its 150th year in the town just a few months ago.

A consultation event was held in store last Saturday, showing the differences between the original plan and the latest version proposed, which has reverted to a more ‘traditional’ design. Pitched roofs have been included, instead of the previous wooden cladded building to set apart the Society’s Headquarters. An additional nine car parking spaces have been provided, two of which are for the apartments proposed, and seven for customers of the store and additional retail units.

Space has also been created for a memorial or heritage tree on site, with increased space for planting along Wells Road, a green wall to screen the service yard, and a new footpath to allow access to the store from Wells Road to the south.

The Society says that they have been working in response to feedback from the original plans and is keen to engage with local people on the revised version.

Comments can be made via forms in store by 6th September and it has also started an online petition for locals to show their support at: www.change.org/p/radstock-site-redevelopment-we-need-your-support

Comments, both for and against, can also be made to B&NES Council via the planning portal by searching: 18/05623/OUTB&NES’ Planning Committee is due to make a decision on the plans on 25th September at a meeting open to the public at Bath’s Guildhall.

Don Morris, CEO of Radstock Co-operative Society, spoke to The Journal about the consultation. He said: “We have had overwhelming support for our regeneration plans, with customers signing our petition and emailing B&NES’ Planning Department, which is really encouraging and demonstrates that the local community want this investment as much as Radstock Co-op.

“Clearly, the old RADCO building is beyond its best before date, and without positive news from B&NES, the future of the site as a supermarket is in jeopardy.

“And, rather than creating an exciting new shopping and leisure experience which will safeguard jobs and be a much-needed boost for the local economy, the refusal of the scheme may result in the reverse.

“However, I don’t want to dwell on that, because I believe we have a great scheme which will enhance the look and feel of the town centre and benefit the needs of our members, customers, colleagues and the local community for years to come.”

Display boards showing the revised regeneration plans are available to view in the Radco store foyer and are on the Radstock Co-op’s website. The plans will be available up until the Planning Committee meeting on 25th September.