RESIDENTS are urged to have their say on designs for the new transport hub which will “improve the way people travel to and from” Taunton.

Taunton’s bus station, on Tower Street, closed its gates on March 27, 2020 after 67 years of operation, with Buses of Somerset claiming it was no longer economically viable to maintain the building.

Somerset Council confirmed in late-May that the bus station site would be reopened some time in 2025 as a new “mobility hub”, connecting bus services to the town centre at a cost of around £2.7m.

The council has now published initial design proposals for the project, with the public being asked to provide their feedback before the beginning of autumn. It is expected to be open next year.

The bus station site was acquired by Somerset West and Taunton Council shortly after its closure, with the council originally intending to turn the site into a temporary car park until a more permanent scheme could be approved and funding secured.

Somerset Council inherited the site when it replaced the district council in April 2023, describing it in official consultation documents as “a prime spot for regeneration.”

A spokesman said: “The Taunton Transport Hub is a visionary project that will help improve the way people travel to and from the town.

“The hub will offer a range of modern and sustainable transport options, including bus, coach, cycle and bike parking facilities.

“The hub will also feature attractive public spaces, green areas, links to the town centre and the River Tone.

“The hub will be a landmark development that will enhance the quality of life and the economic potential of the town and its surroundings.”

The new hub will include six bus stops, each with their own shelter, which are ‘drive in, drive out’ stops – meaning buses will not have to reverse out onto Tower Street after they have picked up passengers.

Two coach stops will also be provided along Castle Way (near the Mecca Bingo), providing an interchange for passengers between the local bus network and the nationwide coach journeys.

There will be five layover bays, where local buses can be parked when not in active service to prevent them clogging up the town centre.

The new hub will have real-time information boards for passengers, an indoor waiting room with toilets, and a changing places toilet facility with a dedicated accessible parking bay.

Outside the building will be a pedestrianised area with outdoor seating and planting, with bicycle parking and new pedestrian crossings to link the site with Goodland Gardens and other existing active travel routes.

Additional features may be added to the hub in the years ahead as more funding is secured from central government or other partners.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for transport and digital, said: “We would urge people to get involved with the survey and take a look at the plans – please tell us what sort of facilities you’d like to see.”

To take part in the consultation, visit www.somersetcouncil.citizenspace.com/comms/taunton-transport-hub by September 17.