Mayor opens rainbow path in Goodland Gardens, Taunton

Cllr Sue Lees was joined by members of Somerset West and Taunton Council (SWT) on the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, which served as a catalyst for the gay rights movement.

It is believed to be the UK's first rainbow path, which is also features a forward facing arrow in black, brown, light blue, pink and white to represent diversity and inclusion in the community.

Cllr Derek Perry, who championed the project, said: “Rainbows mean different things to different people - they are popular with children, give a message of hope, celebrate diversity, and are of course associated with support for the NHS and key workers.

“I am proud that this council recognises the importance of inclusivity and diversity and is sending this message loud and clear.

“I hope it will be embraced by our residents as well as visitors from across the country who can go on to enjoy our beautiful riverside park and support our businesses.”

The path runs for 62 metres parallel to the River Tone from the entrance to Goodland Gardens in Bridge Street.

Jenny Keogh and Liz Hutchings from GoCreate came up with the idea.

“We had discovered rainbow footpaths around the world in Brisbane, Sydney and Reykjavik but only road crossings in the UK," said Jenny.

"We had to try to achieve a first for Taunton and this seemed to be the perfect way to attract residents and visitors to the town centre.”

The cost of creating the rainbow path has come from Taunton’s Emergency Town Centre Recovery Fund.

It is part of a wider package of projects being delivered by the Taunton Together partnership of local businesses, heritage, arts and culture organisations, and SWT to help the High Street bounce back from the impact of Covid-19.