The highly anticipated regeneration of Bridgwater’s historic docks faces significant delays, with the completion date now pushed back until at least March 2027. This extension, a consequence of adjusted government spending deadlines, means a crucial urban renewal project for the Somerset town will unfold over a more protracted timeline than initially envisioned, impacting local expectations and broader development strategies.
Originally earmarked for a substantial £5.2 million makeover, the Northgate Docks, situated at the northern terminus of the venerable Bridgwater and Taunton Canal, were designated as a key component of the wider £23.2 million Bridgwater town deal. This strategic investment aimed to revitalise a pivotal historical area, promising enhanced infrastructure and community benefits through targeted grant funding.
Despite an initial public consultation event held in December 2023, tangible progress on the docks site has remained minimal. This contrasts sharply with other elements of the town’s urban regeneration scheme, such as the Celebration Mile, which is actively advancing and will ultimately forge a vital connection between the docks and Bridgwater railway station.
The decision to extend the project’s timeline stems from an announcement by the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). Shortly before parliament’s summer recess, the department confirmed a 12-month extension for all remaining town deal projects, thereby granting the council until March 2027 to fully expend or return the allocated monies. This adjustment reflects a broader re-evaluation of national development delays in similar initiatives.
Authorities have now confirmed that detailed designs for the docks improvements are actively underway, alongside the tendering process for contractors. However, the final contracts for this significant infrastructure project may not be formally awarded until March 2026. This compressed timeframe leaves a mere single year for the full completion of every aspect of the extensive scheme, posing considerable logistical challenges for the local government.
Of the £5.2 million specifically allocated to the docks within the overarching Bridgwater town deal, £4.2 million is designated for direct investment into the Grade II listed docks themselves. The remaining £1 million is strategically earmarked for enhancing walking and cycling facilities within the immediate vicinity, including the construction of a new swing bridge over Newton Lock, underscoring a commitment to sustainable community investment.
Alex Norris MP, the parliamentary under-secretary for democracy and local growth, reiterated the government’s position, stating that the 2024 October budget announcement formalised the 12-month extension to the original town deals deadline. He clarified that while all town deal monies must be spent by March 2027, some projects may continue beyond this point, particularly where additional match funding is integrated to complete the works.
A brief update regarding the docks project was provided to the council’s harbour management advisory committee during its meeting in Taunton on Monday afternoon, July 28. While Richard Brown, the council’s lead regeneration specialist, was scheduled to deliver a more comprehensive report, he was unable to attend due to ill health, leaving committee members with a less detailed overview than anticipated.
Despite the prolonged timeline, the council has unequivocally confirmed that all funding specifically associated with the docks project will be fully expended by the new March 2027 deadline. A spokesperson affirmed, “Design work on the Bridgwater Docks project is starting now, with the planning process, tender and the appointment of the final contract expected by March 2026.” This statement aims to reassure stakeholders about the project’s eventual progression.
