Work on a major refurbishment of the Crescent car park in Taunton is progressing at pace with final preparations about to get underway.

The town centre car park is being upgraded to provide extra space, sustainable travel enhancements including EV charging points, and environmental improvements in line with Somerset Council’s priorities.

The refurbishment is being carried out in two phases so that at least half of the car park is open to users throughout the refurbishment.

Work on the south car park is now almost complete and resurfacing works are due to begin at the north car park from Monday, 15 May, until 25 May 2023.

On Wednesday, 24 May, both the north and south car parks will be closed while the roundabout at the bottom of Crescent Way is resurfaced.

The refurbishment will create 150 car parking spaces all with more room between each bay enabling easier entry and exit to cars. It will see an increase in the number of accessible parking spaces to 12 and there will be dedicated motorcycle parking areas.

The car park will benefit from the provision of 19 electric vehicle charging points to encourage uptake of electric vehicles in line with our commitment towards becoming carbon neutral.

It will also provide a secure cycle shelter to promote cycling as a sustainable means of transport supporting healthy lifestyles, and environmental improvements with upgraded drainage systems and new tree planting.

Cllr Mike Rigby, Lead Member for Transport and Digital, said:

“I’m pleased to see the work nearing completion ensuring this car park is fit for the future, supporting  our vision and priorities for a fairer, greener, resilient, more flourishing Somerset.

“I would like to thank businesses and customers for bearing with us during this project. The refurbishment of this prime town centre car park will benefit our economy, residents, visitors and the environment, making it the parking option of choice for people coming into Taunton for shopping and social activities.”