U-turn on plans to replace town centre bridge

A town centre footbridge which had fallen into disrepair will not be replaced after all, councillors have said.

The bridge over the River Tone in Goodland Gardens in Taunton was removed in July 2024 by Somerset Council.

Taunton Town Council ran a public consultation, and agreed earlier in the year to replace the bridge "in principle", at a cost of up to £450,000.

However, at its latest council meeting on Tuesday, members voted not to progress with the project, citing high costs.

Councillor Amber Packer Hughes, the deputy leader of Taunton Town Council, said: "In the current financial climate, we must ensure that public funds are prioritised where they deliver the greatest overall benefit for our residents.

"Having carefully considered the costs alongside other pressures and priorities, members concluded that it was not possible to proceed at this time.

"Alternative routes already exist in the area, requiring only a slight detour and continuing to provide safe and accessible pedestrian access.

"We understand this will be disappointing for some, but the decision reflects the need to focus on best value for money and responsible use of limited resources."

Despite the decision, some councillors wanted the bridge project to go ahead.

Councillor Vanessa Garside said she was in favour of the bridge because it was a "symbol of connection between one part of town to the other".

She added: "It was a bridge used for generations. I was very, very sad to lose it."

Councillor Caroline Ellis was also in favour of the rebuild going ahead and added the council had "been on this journey for three years". She said the bridge featured on artwork across Taunton which was used to advertise the town to businesses and tourists.

Follow BBC Somerset on Facebook and X. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.