BRIDGWATER’S Northgate site is set to undergo the first steps toward its redevelopment with the demolition of a number of buildings next month. 

Somerset County Council has tonight (Thursday) announced plans to demolish The Blake and Northgate offices as well as the Bridgwater Enterprise Centre for adults.

The plans follow Tesco's recent decision to withdraw from the deal to build a superstore on the site which is jointly-owned by Somerset County Council and Sedgemoor District Council

Work will start on the unused buildings on April 13 and will be completed by September with Sedgemoor District Council having already given the go-ahead for the demolition. 

Cllr David Huxtable, cabinet member for resources at Somerset County Council, said: “We know this is a pivotal site in Bridgwater and will be working closely with our colleagues at Sedgemoor District Council to plan the next steps to make best use of it. 

“This demolition helps prepare the site for future development and business opportunities that the town deserves.” 

Following the collapse of the Tesco deal Bridgwater Town Council are in the process of organising a public meeting to allow members of the community an opportunity to put their ideas forward for the site. 

However Cllr Leigh Redman, is urging representatives of the county and district councils to also attend.

He said: “The land is ideally placed for commercial and leisure or in an ideal world both. 

“We are lacking a prime leisure resource open to young and old, perhaps this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to take up the challenge.

“I am calling on the county and district councils to be clear in their aims and support the Bridgwater Town Council by sending officers once the meeting is arranged.”