I WANT to start by welcoming the completion of Midsomer Norton’s new Market Square and accessible bus interchange, which is an exciting milestone in Bath & North East Somerset Council’s regeneration of the heart of the town centre.

The council are working with local organisations to bring back markets and other vibrant community events to the Market Square over the next 18 months, writes Councillor Kevin Guy, Liberal Democrat Leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council, in his monthly column for the Midsomer Norton and Radstock Journal.

Supported by a more convenient and accessible bus stop interchange, we hope the scheme will encourage more people to shop, socialise and visit the town centre. It is wonderful to have The Island in use once again for the benefit of the town’s residents.

Saturday, February 1, saw festive community events in both Midsomer Norton and Radstock. The annual Wassail was the first event to take place in the new Market Square. It was organised by Somer Valley Rediscovered, an organisation supported by Bath & North East Somerset (B&NES) Council. Radstock’s Lantern Parade and Festival, another great event showcasing creativity and community spirit, was also supported by B&NES Council.

Meanwhile, residents and businesses have been working together to imagine what the next chapter for Midsomer Norton might look like. Between September and December 2024, hundreds of local people told B&NES Council what works well, and what needs improving, in the town centre. I want to thank everyone who took part by sharing their views and aspirations. Your input helps us to shape plans to revitalise your town and ensure it meets your needs.

Improving transport across our wider area is one of our top priorities. B&NES Council wants to hear from residents and businesses on the Somer Valley Links (SVL) project, an initiative which is aimed at improving sustainable travel between Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Bath and Bristol through enhanced bus infrastructure and increased opportunities for walking, wheeling, and cycling.

The project aims to provide more travel choices for residents, reduce congestion, connect rural areas to towns and cities, and improve air quality. We want to gather as much feedback as possible from the community to ensure its successful delivery.

You can find out more about the project and how to share your views online on the council website, which can be visited here: https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/how-take-part-consultation-0.

The public consultations run from Tuesday, February 4 until Sunday, March 16, 2025. Your nearest public consultation event will take place at the Trinity Hub, Radstock, on Thursday, March 6 (from 3pm to 7pm). I encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to ask questions and tell us what your priorities are.

February also sees works to improve crossings and footways in The Street, Nelson Ward Drive and Frome Road in Radstock. These are all busy areas, with lots of pedestrians, so the works are intended to help improve safety.