THE final phase of Yeovil's major regeneration programme - the Yeovil Refresh - is set to go ahead following Somerset Council's successful purchase of the Glover's Walk site from Martin Property Group. 

Somerset Council completed the purchase of the site following a reallocation of £4.8 million of Future High Streets Funding (out of a total of £9.75 million so far awarded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government). It takes the overall budget for the Yeovil Refresh programme to over £24 million.

The final phase of the programme will see the Glover's Walk premises demolished and redeveloped to form a temporary 'meanwhile' use, which is intended to contribute to the evolution of the town centre while long term development options for the site are explored.

The local authority has confirmed that the site will be redeveloped in accordance with master planning work, which started in March and received funding from Homes England. 

Speaking about the purchase, Cllr Mike Rigby, Lead Member for Economic Development, Planning & Assets commented: “We are very pleased to finally be the new owners of Glover’s Walk and look forward to working with our neighbours ahead of works commencing on the delivery of an attractive, flexible, income generating space for Yeovil and its town centre."

He continued: "Somerset Council is determined to drive the re-imagining of our town centres. High streets across the country have been affected by the new ways in which customers buy goods and services. The regeneration of this part of Yeovil will build on the Refresh works that have been delivered over the last few years, in building a more attractive town centre.”

Gary Martin, Director at Martin Property Group commented: “We are delighted to have completed the sale of this strategic and important site in Yeovil, having worked closely with Somerset Council over the past 12 months to make this happen. As new owners, the Council is best positioned to maximise the potential of the site and its impact within Yeovil in the years ahead.”

Demolition contractor agreements for the Glover's Walk site are currently being finalised and further details are expected to be announced shortly.