RESIDENTS and businesses in Keynsham are being asked for their views on a shortlist of ideas for “revitalising” the town centre.
They include pedestrianisation of the High Street, improvements to the Memorial Park, and removal of the weir.
Bath and North East Somerset Council says: “There is an opportunity to change the High Street to create a better place. This would require a comprehensive study and community engagement to re-imagine Keynsham town centre to improve the quality of place, support sustainable transport, and deliver economic prosperity.”
The High Street is currently one-way southbound with a contraflow cycle lane between Charlton Road and Temple Street.
In its report ‘Creating Sustainable Communities: The Journey to Net Zero’, the council says: “The study would consider options for the current one-way section of the High Street, including pedestrianisation, bus priority, and public realm improvements including more rest and support facilities that will provide wider benefits to the community.
“It would also be possible to extend the scope of a scheme to include the full length of the High Street as far north as Station Road, and to include Charlton Road between the High Street and Ashton Way.”
The High Street cycle lane has been controversial since it opened in March 2022, with more than 100 people having fallen and suffered injuries. The issue has been blamed on an “optical illusion” created by different levels between the pavement, cycle lane and road.
Other suggestions in the Keynsham Town Centre Regeneration Action Plan include:
* Improvements to the Memorial Park, including removal of the weir to enable fish to pass, increased biodiversity, and improved signage.
* Upper High Street and further Temple Street public realm improvements
* Repurposing of Riverside vacant units
* More shopfront improvements
* Better walking connections, cycle repair stations and improved cycle routes
* More community and cultural events
* Additional community space
People can comment on the plans from now until June 20 by completing an online survey.
There is also a display at Keynsham Library’s community space until June 4, where people can learn more about plans for their local area, as well as the reset of the Bath and North East Somerset Local Plan, a long-term plan for housing and economic growth in the wider area.
B&NES Council says it has also identified a wider package of transport measures to improve walking and cycling links in Keynsham town centre as well as improved bus services.
Councillor Paul Roper, B&NES cabinet member for economic and cultural sustainable development, said: “This is a chance for residents and businesses to help shape Keynsham town centre, as we look to the future housing and employment growth that is on the horizon bringing opportunities for investment.
“The renewal of the High Street will create potential for increased tourism and footfall in the town, supporting local trade and protecting its heritage assets. We look forward to hearing from the community on how you think Keynsham should be regenerated to best meet everyone’s needs.”
Keynsham Town Council said regeneration of the town centre is “essential for building a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable future for our community.”
It added: “We support revitalising the heart of our town to create a welcoming, accessible, and thriving space for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
The town centre regeneration action plan is funded by £750,000 from the West of England Combined Authority’s Housing and Regeneration Enabling Fund to create regeneration action plans and masterplans for Keynsham, Midsomer Norton, Twerton in Bath, and Radstock.
Helen Godwin, the new Mayor of the West of England, said: “I want all of the West’s high streets to really thrive, including in market towns like Keynsham.”
She said the £750,000 investment “will help local residents to work with the council and its partners to plan the regeneration, new homes and new infrastructure that communities need.”
Pictured, taking traffic out of Keynsham High Street and removing the weir from Keynsham Memorial Park are on the shortlist of ideas for ‘revitalising’ the town centre Photos: Andie Barlow
