Somer Valley Enterprise Zone: first public engagement

Contents

• Introduction and policy background
• Scheme overview
• The purpose of this public engagement
• Businesses: what this means for you
• Local residents: what this means for you
• View project documentation
• View our launch webinar
• Have your say
• Project timeline

Scheme overview

The Somer Valley Enterprise Zone (SVEZ) is located at Old Mills, a 13.5-hectare greenfield site on the north-western edge of Midsomer Norton.

Outline showing the site allocated for development as the Somer Valley Enterprise Zone (SVEZ). The land is on the north-western edge of Midsomer Norton, and adjoins woodland around the mining spoil heap (The Batch) and the A362.

Once developed, the Enterprise Zone could create around 1,300 new jobs for local people, and in the region of 40,000 square metres of commercial floorspace, with a range of commercial buildings, including general industrial, warehousing and distribution space, along with office accommodation and complimentary amenities including a hotel and food and beverage offer.

The SVEZ will complement other land uses in the locality, contributing to a balanced mix of commercial development. It will provide a highly sustainable and attractive new location, drawing in new businesses and skills, and reducing the need for commuting by local people who currently have to travel towards Bristol, Bath and other urban centres for employment. 

Project masterplan

Projected view of the completed Somer Valley Enterprise Zone

The project has evolved and we have developed the design approach through a series of stages and processes. These have included the following:

• Research into the area and its needs
• Technical studies of the site and surrounding area
• Pre-Planning Application advice
• An independent design review

View the SVEZ project pages, for more detail on the plans for land use, transport, sustainability and other project concerns