Seaton Jurassic - just part of the story
Progress on many of Seaton’s key development projects was welcomed by all parties involved in regenerating the town.
This week’s meeting of the Seaton Regeneration Programme Board coincided with the start on the site of Seaton Jurassic by contractor, Kier, so there was much to celebrate.
After years of campaigning by the local community, the hard work of all partners involved and financial support from the three local authorities, East Devon District, Devon County and Seaton Town councils, as well as the Heritage Lottery Fund, Coastal Communities Fund and a number of charitable donations, the dream of a visitor centre in the town is about to become reality. A formal celebration will take place next week (26 September).
The meeting heard how the centre’s cafe, shop and welcome area, which will include the Tourist Information Centre, will open in July 2015 with the full centre opening during the autumn.
Local community groups and residents will be offered early tours of the centre as the build progresses. It was acknowledged by all parties that additional car parking will be required on occasion. An overspill car park is proposed on the land opposite the centre on The Underfleet and this will be the subject of a planning application later this year.
An information day – to include all aspects of the centre such as the hotspots, interpretation, resources and car parking arrangements – is planned for autumn this year.
The Stop Line Way, the long distance cycle and walking route linking the Bristol Channel to Lyme Bay, runs alongside Seaton Jurassic and onwards to Colyford en route to Axminster. Planning permission is in place for the new path to be constructed from the rear of The Saltings through to Colyford Common and negotiations are continuing with completion expected in 2015.
The meeting also heard about the work of the Town Development Team including the launch of a new logo for Seaton, the successful ‘independent retailer of the year’ vote undertaken via social media and awarded to Paperchain, and plans for a new town website, SeatonDevon.org that will include a link to “myhighstreet.com” promoting online shopping from local shops and businesses. The Team has been successful in securing some regional and national media coverage for Seaton during the key summer season.
After securing planning consent for two workshop developments – at Colyford Road and Fosseway Park -East Devon District Council is now tendering for their construction. A feasibility report will be prepared for the council’s Cabinet later in the year. This will be informed by a report on the business and office space needs across the district commissioned earlier in the year.
Finally the Board heard about some plans for the enhancement of the seafront which are currently being developed by Seaton Town Council following public consultation. Further discussions will take place with all parties concerned to ensure a joined up approach.
Councillor Ian Thomas, cabinet member for economy and chair of the Seaton Regeneration Board said “This was a very positive meeting and it was both heartening and reassuring to hear the support for and commitment to the regeneration work from the various organisations and representatives present. Complex projects take time, negotiation and a lot of hard work by many parties but we are seeing through success stories such as the Harbour Road developments and Seaton Jurassic that this can pay off and lead to further investment in the town. We will all continue to work hard to continue this regeneration story and ensure a positive economic future for Seaton residents and visitors.”
The Seaton Regeneration Board consists of representatives from key local businesses; Axmouth Parish, Seaton Town, East Devon District and Devon County councils; and the local community.
