The closure of Highbridge’s long-running cattle market edged a step closer this week with the confirmation that the weekly event will be transferred – along with Taunton’s livestock market – to a new £50million Regional Rural Business Centre being built on the outskirts of Bridgwater (pictured).
A statement released on Tuesday (January 2nd) by Sedgemoor District Council spokeswoman Claire Faun stated: “Both the Taunton and Highbridge markets will be relocating to the new market from their present out-dated town centre sites, which will allow these important markets to become even more successful as a combined venture.”
“In Highbridge, the relocation of the market will allow the redevelopment of a prominent town centre site, which will greatly complement existing redevelopment and positively change the town for the better.”
Confirmation of the long-expected news came after months of negotiations between market operators Greenslade Taylor Hunt and developers Mead Realisations and Sedgemoor District Council.
Duncan McGinty, Leader of Sedgemoor District Council, said: “The relocation of some of the best of Somerset markets into one super-sized market on this site will secure vital employment and quality facilities for the future. Sedgemoor District Council sees the success of this project as an example of strong partnership working between local authorities and the private sector. The Regional Rural Business centre is seen as an important part of the continued regeneration of the district.”
Computer generated view south RRBC courtesy of Hammonds Yates © M.Godfrey/A.Hauldren
