PLANS to regenerate the vacant former Poundstretcher in Taunton would see it transformed into a "vibrant development of homes" and a space for local businesses.

Acorn Homes unveiled its "big ambitions" for Taunton’s Bridge Street site on Friday, September 27.

The locally based firm is launching a six-week public engagement exercise to get the public's feedback on its proposals for the site, which has stood vacant since Poundstretcher closed in 2020.

Several local planning strategies since 2008 have earmarked the site for development. Acorn Homes said the proposals would transform this "underused brownfield site into a space that revitalises the area around the bridge".

The proposals include between 45 and 50 new, "thoughtfully designed" one and two bed apartments.

It would also include a "ground floor frontage, with smaller spaces for businesses that could include up to two shops and a cafe".

This is hoped to provide opportunities for local businesses and create a "lively, connection with the street and riverside". On the upper floors, there would be additional flexible space for businesses.

Have your say on the plans HERE. 

The plans also feature a raised communal green space for residents, offering an outdoor area within the town centre. It also plans to "improve walking and cycling routes along the riverside, connecting the development to the wider community".

Acorn’s Planning Director Donna Collier said: "This is an exciting opportunity to breathe new life into a vacant site situated in a highly sustainable location.

"Our ambition is to provide homes and work spaces that meet Taunton’s needs, while supporting local businesses and making this part of the town centre a vibrant, appealing place to live and work.

As a local business, it’s important to us that any development we’re involved in benefits the community in the long term. This is why we’re seeking people’s input now on our plans for the former Poundstretcher site.”

The consultation into proposals for the site runs from September 27 until midnight on Friday, November 6. Residents, businesses and stakeholders can find out more about the proposals at www.acornhomes.co.uk. Those wishing to share their views can fill in an online survey at bit.ly/4dbmLty or contact 0330 107 0535 for a physical copy.

A public exhibition into the plans at St James Church, St James Street, Taunton, on October 25, from 2pm to 7pm.