Following ongoing discussions between Somerset County Council and Shepton Mallet Town Council, the green light has been given to a resurfacing proposal for the Market Place and Town Street, due to begin in the spring.

The proposal, agreed at a town council meeting last month, consists of replacing the existing paving with a modern resin surface in keeping with the area's heritage.

This project is one of a number underway aimed at regenerating the town centre. The project is jointly funded by the county council, Mendip District Council (via a Section 106 payment) and the town council and will be managed by the county council.

The works are provisionally expected to begin in February, subject to the evolution of restrictions in place due to the coronavirus pandemic, and last for approximately three months.

This project is part of the town council's commitment to improving the appearance and experience of Shepton Mallet's town centre.

Other projects include the refurbishment of the library and the implementation of a new wayfaring signage system for the town centre.

The resurfacing project is one of the commitments made by the council in its newly-adopted Town Plan called Investing in Shepton's Future, as part of a wider commitment to investing in the town.

The town council is optimistic that this transformation of the town centre will boost civic pride, encourage footfall to the town centre and improve the area's suitability for public events and markets.

The town clerk, Charlotte Starkie, said: "This has been an aspiration of the town council for several years and we are excited that we now have the resources, both staff and funds, to take this forward.

"We thank residents for their patience in waiting for the scheme to be delivered, and really hope that it brings added benefits to the town, in addition to making the area safer, cleaner and visually more attractive."

The area to be resurfaced extends from the north entrance of Town Street, on the corner with Waterloo Road, to the Victorian water fountain.

The use of modern resin surfacing is understood to present a number of advantages, including:

- Suitable for both pedestrian use and regular road traffic use.

- Low risk of tripping owing to it being one smooth, continuous surface.

- Available in a range of colours which can be matched to surrounding buildings.

- Low-maintenance in terms of vegetation control as there are no gaps for weeds to grow through.

The South West Heritage Trust has been consulted on the proposal, which has been considered in terms of its compatibility with the local heritage.

The Market Place is home to Shepton Mallet's iconic market cross, as well as the Victorian water fountain and The Shambles – a remnant of the medieval market stalls which one covered the Market Place.

The town council will be communicating directly with stakeholders over the coming months, in particular residents and local business owners.

Anyone with anyone immediate questions can contact the town council at [email protected].