Urban Development Framework

In August 2004 Roger Evans and Associates in partnership with Faber Maunsell, were commissioned by South Somerset District Council to produce an Urban Development Framework (UDF) for Yeovil Town Centre to articulate the objectives and aspirations set out in the Yeovil Vision. The challenge was to make a step change in the quality of the town centre, think big and be ambitious for the future.

Following extensive consultation the UDF was published in September 2005. The purpose of the UDF is to provide a robust and clear development strategy for delivering the objectives and aspirations of the Vision, through a spatial framework, with specific urban design guidance for key strategic sites.

Some of the priorities identified in the UDF as “early-wins” have since become Vision projects namely: Reckleford Gyratory System, Foundry House, The Sports Zone, and Yeovil Bus Station amongst others. The first of these projects will be delivered in 2009 and further details can be seen within the Vision Projects section of this website.

The UDF Refresh 2009

In 2009 it is proposed to commence a refresh of the UDF. Much has happened since the publication of the UDF in 2005. For example a delivery structure has been put in place for Yeovil Vision, there is a changing planning context, new issues have emerged, some development projects have progressed, whilst others have taken a different form or direction than originally envisaged.

The challenge will be to review the development of Yeovil in light of these changed circumstances and in particular respond to the draft RSS proposals for Yeovil and its surrounds, which were published in July 2008.

The draft RSS suggests that over the next 20 years Yeovil may be expected to accommodate potentially 11,400 new dwellings.
If agreed this will present major challenges to the Town and underline the importance of planning for the future and establishing a clear, realistic and ongoing Vision for Yeovil.
 

For a copy of Urban Development Framework report please email enquiries@yeovilvision.co.uk.