Burnham-On-Sea’s town centre is set to be given a “spruce up” after the Town Council highlighted that a number of urgent improvements are needed – from replacing rusty signs to repairing cracked pavements and introducing gull-proof litter bins.
The Town Council has drawn up a list of issues that it wants Sedgemoor District Council to address in a bid to “boost civic pride.”
The list was considered during the Town Council’s latest meeting of its Town Projects Committee. It has been compiled by Cllr Peter Clayton following a special tour of the town centre.
Town Clerk Tatiana Cant told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “We want to boost civic pride in our town and make it more attractive for visitors and residents.”
“We hope to spruce up the town centre with some quick fixes, which also feeds into the wider improvements planned through the Burnham Evolution project.”
She added: “We routinely report faults and issues to Sedgemoor and those are generally adressed quickly but this list shows there are quite a few issues outstanding which is why a positive effort is needed.”
In his report to the council, Cllr Peter Clayton said: “Generally, the pavements on the High Street and side roads are very dirty. I am aware they were jet washed recently, however the side streets and Pier Street were not done. I feel the pavements need cleaning on a much more regular basis and the side roads and Pier Street should be included.”
He highlighted that several drainage gully covers are loose, that cycle racks need repairing, pavement slabs need repairs, and white lines need to be repainted, as pictured below at the junction of Adam Street and High Street.
He added: “Signage in the town and on the seafront is very poor – the signs are very rusty and some are unreadable.”
“There have been a number of poor repairs along the High Street paved areas with just concrete laid instead of the red paving slabs. The repairs are poor and cracking up.”
And Cllr Clayton identifies several town centre areas that need special attention.
“The Tuckers Garage site still remains vulnerable and is also not pleasant on the eye. Technical Street also remains a constant problem with litter.”
In his report, he adds: “Some shop fronts are also very tatty and consideration could be given to another shop front grant scheme.”
“The litter bins next to the Pier Street bus shelter often overflow and seagulls tear the litter up in an attempt to find food. Gull-proof litter bins are a must.”
Burnham and Highbridge Town Council members have agreed to address the points to Sedgemoor District Council.
