Council focused on completing Celebration Mile after MP criticism
Bridgwater's MP, Sir Ashley Fox, accused the authority of not caring
Somerset Council says it accepts works on the Celebration Mile has been difficult for traders, and it's focused on completing the regeneration project "as soon as possible".
It's after Bridgwater's MP, Sir Ashley Fox, criticised how the authority has handled the scheme - saying they've caused "real anger and disruption".
The council says the project will benefit the whole town's economy in the long-term - but it adds that investment of this scale always means some unavoidable disruption.
On his Facebook page, Sir Fox said: "I formally objected to this application because I did not believe it would support a safe environment for its future occupants, neighbouring residents, or the adjoining school.
"I’m pleased to learn that it will no longer be going ahead right next to Westover Green School and hope that a more suitable location may be found."
'Investment of this scale unfortunately always means some unavoidable disruption'
In a response, a spokesperson from the local authority added: "The Celebration Mile will benefit the whole town’s economy in the long-term, but investment of this scale unfortunately always means some unavoidable disruption.
"We accept the works have been difficult for traders and we understand their concerns – our officers and lead members have met people face to face at events during the last few months to hear concerns and answer questions, and businesses have been visited regularly by a dedicated community liaison officer from the contractor. We are focused on getting the work completed as soon as possible so businesses, and the rest of Bridgwater, can feel the benefit.
"On a complicated project like this, approaches will often need to change depending on what is found as works progress.
"The decision to close Eastover wasn’t taken lightly back at the start of the year, but it was down to various challenges uncovered as works were carried out – such as unmapped utility services and the difficulties of carrying out drainage work safely while vehicles are using the road.
"The team is now making good progress and we look forward to sharing details of plans for completion shortly."