TRADERS are “excited” at what the future holds with with work progressing on the £2.4m revamp of Midsomer Norton’s market square.

Work started on the £2.39 million redevelopment of the town square in May which will eventually see it transformed into a flexible 1,000m² public space outside the town hall.

This space will serve as a venue for outdoor events of all sizes, positioning Midsomer Norton as a market town once again.

The project works hand in hand with the ongoing restoration of Midsomer Norton’s Town Hall, allowing for a blend of indoor and outdoor events.

Daniel Newman, owner of Pure Taste, said: “We are excited for what the future brings here in the square.

“If the market stalls come, so will the people. Any positive upgrades to the community will help local businesses. Plus, with the ongoing work across the road, the builders enjoy coming in for lunch from time to time, so I don’t mind that either.”

The scheme is being carried out by Bath and North East Somerset Council with funding and support provided by Historic England, the West of England Combined Authority through its ‘Love Our High Streets’ grant programme and Midsomer Norton Town Council.

The improvements will also help pedestrian access, making it safer for vehicles entering and exiting The Island. Additionally, the scheme includes new road surfacing and will create ten car parking spaces, including two modern disabled parking bays.

One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “It’s an amazing thing that is happening, and I just hope it brings what it has promised. Midsomer Norton has needed some refurbishment for quite a long time, and it’s nice to see that the town is finally getting the love it deserves.”

The work is expected to be finished in early 2025. Bath and North East Somerset Council have been contacted for a comment.

The High Street renewal programme for Midsomer Norton includes a range of activities to improve the town centre and is an accumulation of different projects.

The scheme aims to support sustainable economic and cultural growth on the high street, and to enhance local historic character by making streets vibrant places. The programme will do this through physical works to buildings, including repair, reinstatement of lost features, public realm improvements and master planning.

The programme of works can be viewed at yourmidsomernorton.co.uk and updates will be added to the website as the works progress.