As a result of the inspirational art activities the event generated a solid body of work which will inform the proposed re-developments. The public consultation included a large cross-section of the community - a wide range of ages and abilities, representing those who work, live and visit the High Street. For people who couldn’t attend the event, other opportunities were offered either verbally during Market days, or on-line via the facebook page.
A solid platform for future community involvement has been set, with plans for utilising Mendip House for continued projects led by local arts organisations. It is the intention to continue artist involvement in the forthcoming stages of the planning and design and the Street Carpet event has provided a unique opportunity for representatives from Project Taunton, Taunton Deane, Reveal and Reed Holland Associates to forge new relations and links with local artists, businesses and the local community.
The event provides the basis upon which a considered and detailed master plan can be developed. Key concerns that will be fed into the master planning process will include:
· Seating: positioning within the High Street, height and design, incorporating considerations for vandal proofing and shelter provision.
· Signposting and thoroughfares: both permanent and for temporary events. A way of joining up and linking the different parts of Taunton. Clear routes for cyclists and areas for bike racks.
· Trees and greenery: grief expressed for the loss of the plain trees. We received knowledgeable suggestions for types of trees and planting varieties and designs.
· Social activity: For the High Street to be the centre of town life. More attractive shops, lighting, performance/arts space. Something to attract and entertain all ages and genders. Areas for the community to display/advertise/take part in activities.
· Heritage: build on the best of Taunton. There is a feeling that the things that the area was known for…the pigs, the frogs, have been taken away (along with the seating and now the trees) and yet nothing has been replaced. The beautiful aspects of the High Street are hidden and overshadowed by shop fronts and uneven and mismatching paving.
· Environmental concerns: A mix of ‘green’ materials and ‘modern’ design. Concern for the design to be sustainable, in terms of maintenance and funding.
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