A delivery partner for the Council’s £34 million regeneration of Keynsham town centre has been appointed.
Willmott Dixon Construction will be responsible for the design development, demolition and construction of new space for shops, new streets and spaces, a one stop shop and library, and replacement, environmentally-friendly Council offices. The company has extensive experience, including locally with the redevelopment of Colston Hall, Bristol, S-Park, Emersons Green and Newport City Campus.
Sustainability will be a key aspect of the scheme. Energy efficiency will be built-in to the design which is specified to achieve the top ‘A’ rating under the Government’s Energy Performance Certification scheme. With a range of construction trade awards to their name, Willmott Dixon was seen as an ideal partner to deliver a sustainable, high quality scheme. They are also committed to creating local employment, training and trade opportunities as part of the build programme. They will be arranging a number of events within the town over the next few months to offer opportunities for local businesses and employment.
Councillor David Bellotti (Lib-Dem, Lyncombe), Cabinet Member for Community Resources, said, “In line with the decision made by the Cabinet in December 2011 to progress the project, Bath & North East Somerset Council is delighted to have appointed a delivery partner with such considerable experience to support us regenerate Keynsham town centre. This represents a further step forward for the scheme.”
“Following further consultation with the public on the highways aspects of the scheme, the Council will be submitting a planning application in the coming months and holding an exhibition so that people have the information they need to give their view.”
Councillor Cherry Beath (Lib-Dem, Combe Down), Cabinet Member for Sustainable Development, said, “The Council believes that Keynsham will benefit from new opportunities, jobs, and greater prosperity for local people as the town becomes a more attractive proposition for private sector investment. The project links in with a wider plan to develop the town, including the former Cadbury site.”
Neal Stephens, Managing Director, Willmott Dixon Construction, South West & Wales comments: “This is a key scheme for Keynsham and we are looking forward to working closely with the Council and the local community throughout the project. Our emphasis is not just on delivering a great development but ensuring we genuinely support the local community through our work.”
Willmott Dixon will be working in partnership with the Council’s project team over the next 6 months to agree the detailed design and construction programme prior to a planned start on site in August 2012.
