Wellington
MARKET AND COASTAL TOWNS INITIATIVE
The Vision & Plan for the future that WE want Contents
Executive Summary...... 2
Foreword...... 4
Introduction...... 5
How We Wrote the Vision and Plan...... 5
Wellington - Our Town...... 6-7
Our Community’s Profile...... 8-10
Our Vision...... 11
Our Community...... 12
Our Environment and Housing...... 13
Our Economy and Employment...... 14-15
Our Transport...... 16
Our Young People and Education...... 17
Implementation Plan...... 18
Appendix A: SWOT Analysis...... 19
Appendix B: Strategic Context...... 20-21
Links to other plans and strategies.....Back Cover
A Vision for Wellington 1 Wellington Monument and the Blackdown Hills
Executive Summary ensure that Wellington is visually attractive with buildings level of through traffic in the town centre. We will aim his Vision and Plan for Wellington, Somerset, is An extensive range of sport and leisure activities and spaces that are well designed and maintained. to reduce the impact of heavy and light traffic on the the product of almost a year of preparation and Easy access to protected landscapes The amount of waste created by Wellington’s residents, town centre environment, to expand the public transport Tcommunity engagement led by the Wellington businesses and visitors must be reduced, as must the options available to residents travelling out of Wellington, Economic Partnership. A steering group launched the The Vision for Wellington is to be “an inclusive town amount of finite resources used by Wellington. Similarly to improve the options and quality of public transport process in November 2007 and then conducted a range proud of its people, identity and history. Surrounded by there must be an increase in the proportion of energy available to residents travelling within Wellington and of workshops and events to establish the issues that protected landscapes, Wellington will be renowned for from renewable sources. The negative environmental to promote and improve walking and cycling as a local residents felt affected the town and the actions the quality of its local food, its cultural industries and its impacts of new buildings and developments must be viable transport option for the majority of residents of that were needed to address the areas of concern. The tourist opportunities. Accessibility to the M5 and mainline continually reduced. Wellington’s green spaces are Wellington. final document was drafted by the project worker and railway will make it a highly attractive location at the precious and must be protected and enhanced. completed by an external consultant. centre of the South West and the gateway to Devon and Young people are the future of Wellington, but they Cornwall for many businesses who will all contribute to the To meet the needs of Wellington’s residents, there must are often stigmatised and ostracised often because of Wellington is a historic town that developed its wealth in town’s vibrant and healthy economy and community”. be sufficient supply of affordable housing and housing the actions of a small minority. To help young people agriculture, wool and textiles. In the twentieth century it At the same time, the vision is underpinned by an urgent types. be involved, engaged and consulted on the future increasingly became a dormitory suburb of Taunton, the need to meet the climate change challenge. We must of Wellington, we will aim to extend and improve the nearby county town, but has more recently started to ensure not only that our use of the world’s finite resources, Without a strong and resilient economy, Wellington will range of facilities available to young people of all ages establish a renaissance via its food-related businesses. especially carbon fuels, is continually reduced but also always struggle to meet the other needs of its residents. and to support and promote their emotional, creative that we can adapt to changes in the national and global We will aim to work with existing employers to meet their and social development. We will work to ensure that Wellington has been identified as a settlement that will economy as climate change impacts upon our activities strategic needs and to secure high quality employment there are sufficient school places to meet the needs see substantial housing growth in the coming years. This and quality of life. for residents of all ages and skill levels. We will promote of the growing community and also to use technology will place particular strain on existing services but also growth in the number and range of businesses in and all other methods to ensure that lifelong learning offer opportunities to address some of the long term In terms of its community, the future aim is for Wellington to Wellington especially by developing local economic opportunities are available to all residents. We will also structural issues such as: be a town that is inclusive of all its residents and welcoming links and opportunities. We will also brand and market work with employers to identify the skills they require, and Reliance for employment on a small number of large for all newcomers. It needs to provide residents with a Wellington as a place for food, cultural tourism and work with schools and agencies to help them develop manufacturers safe environment and a town centre that can be safely creative businesses. We will aim to promote and support those skills. A town centre in need of investment accessed by all ages at all times of the day and night. new business investment that brings significant and Poor public transport links While better than many places, the quality and level of varied employment opportunities to local residents. The The implementation of this plan will be led by the Perceptions of high levels of anti-social behaviour participation in sporting activities should still be improved, protection, support for and promotion of independent Wellington Economic Partnership together with A lack of affordable housing as should participation in arts and cultural events. With retailing in Wellington is also vital, as is the provision of Wellington Town Council. The support of key service an ageing population, the standard of health care also premises and services to support start-up businesses. agencies will, however, be critical and to this end Wellington does however have many strengths and these needs to be maintained and developed. forums such as the Local Area Partnership will be key to include: Although benefiting from a junction on the M5, Wellington obtaining the strategic coordination that will be vital if A high proportion of independent retailers The environment of Wellington is paramount. The aim is to has poor public transport provision and has a high Wellington is to achieve its vision.
2 2 A Vision for Wellington A Vision for Wellington 3 3 Introduction
his Vision and Plan for the future of Wellington has Focused events were then organised around each theme been written by the residents of the town with the although we felt that, in the time allowed, we would need Taim of establishing the future they want for the to condense a number of themes which became: next 20 years. The process was started by the Wellington Transport Economic Partnership who obtained funding from the Economy & Employment Market and Coastal Towns Association to carry out a Youth Services & Education community engagement exercise. Environment & Housing Community Foreword The Vision and Plan builds on a body of previous research Obviously there is a degree of overlap between the and strategies including the Wellington Area Community various themes. ur plan looks to the future of the community of Wellington Strategy (2006). Importantly, however, it concerns itself and Rockwell Green. We are determined that Wellington only with the town itself, not the surrounding communities, Events were held with two local schools in order to Ois as well placed as we can make it to meet the potential and also embodies a much greater level of community engage students and pupils in the vision process. The challenges caused by both natural and legislative changes which will involvement in identifying issues and solutions. first of these took place in January 2008 with the School affect the economic and social life of our community. We want to Council of Beech Grove Primary School when three make Wellington a better place for all to live. Each of the five sections has a statement of local needs members of the Steering Group facilitated an hour of which is drawn from the community profile, the Strengths, group work in what was a very productive afternoon. The plan is the result of asking people who live locally about how they Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis At the second school, Court Fields Community School see the future of the town. The purpose of the plan is to demonstrate (Appendix A) and the local consultation. The community (Secondary), circle assemblies were used to discuss the to local, regional and national bodies that we are proud of Wellington, profile is followed by a vision for the future of Wellington, issues affecting Wellington. The school subsequently took that we work well together and how we want to build a sustainable the aims (i.e. five or six statements of broad intent) and the concept of the Wellington Market and Coastal Towns future for our town. The plan is based on pride in our past, concern objectives (i.e. actions that arise from the aims and which Initiative (WMCTi) and adapted it to the Learning to Lead for our environment, a vision for a 21st Century economy based on can lead directly to specific projects). programme. The results of the school events corroborated learning and enterprise, and making the most of our geographical 16 of the 23 visions produced by the November event position. This document is a clear statement of where the residents and formed the basis of student presentations to an and businesses of Wellington want to go in the coming audience of councillors, the local MP and the WMCTI The Wellington Economic Partnership approached the Market and years, but delivery of its objectives has to rely upon the Steering Group in March 2008, giving an insight into the Coastal Towns Association who have provided great assistance in engagement of those partner organisations that hold issues affecting young people in Wellington. compiling this Vision and Plan. A steering group of representatives from the necessary financial and staff resources as well as community groups, local authorities and local business was established. the legal responsibilities. This process will be led by the From late February to early April five public community Representatives from a wide range of community organisations were Wellington Economic Partnership in conjunction with the engagement events were held based around the vision invited to attend a launch event in November 2007. “Visioning events” Town Council. Clear opportunities for engagement lie themes. The events were widely publicised in Wellington to consult with the public were held from February to April 2008. So this through the Local Area Partnership and the Blackdown and over 115 people from local organisations, businesses plan is a voice from all sections of our community who are committed Hills bid for European funding from the Local Action for and interested groups were specifically invited to to creating a sustainable future for Wellington. Rural Communities programme. participate. The events were accompanied by a photo display depicting Wellington through the years together This is the result. It is our vision of what needs to happen in Wellington to How We Wrote the Vision and Plan with details of future proposals for the town. This proved a achieve the objectives identified by the people of Wellington. It covers good focus for discussion as participants evaluated and all aspects of community life. We would like to thank all of those who This Vision and Plan was initiated by the Wellington provided a critique of the theme visions. The results of have contributed, for their hard work, commitment and dedication. Economic Partnership, with the help of the Market these events were analysed and posted on the WMCTi’s We are privileged to present the plan to you and Coastal Towns Association a steering group of website so that everyone could see the suggestions and representatives from community groups, local authorities comments produced. Dave Mitton & John Pragnell and local business was established to guide the drafting Joint Chairmen and consultation process. Once all of the community engagement events had Wellington Market and Coastal Towns Initiative Steering Group been held, the results from these events were analysed by The steering group launched the Vision for Wellington the Steering Group which drafted the final document. An in November 2007 and combined the event with the external consultant, Julian Mellor of 2MD Regeneration first community engagement exercise. Local people, who has worked with a number of other MCTI projects in organisations and businesses were invited to attend and the South West, was appointed to edit the final document over 40 people attended, despite inclement weather. and check it for robustness. This was then given final approval by the Steering Group. Participants were asked to discuss the issues faced by Wellington with ideas and suggestions recorded on paper. Press coverage has been given by the Wellington Weekly, They were then asked to complete questionnaires which the Somerset County Gazette, and The Edge Directory (a allowed for a more detailed explanation of their views, local publication that gets delivered to every household and posed questions about the town and themselves. in Wellington) while details of all events and progress with From this information we were able to identify eight key preparing the vision were always available on the project themes, which in turn, enabled us to prepare a series of website www.visionforwellington.org.uk visions for the town.
4 4 A Vision for Wellington A Vision for Wellington 5 5 Wellington - Our Town
Wellington town centre in the 1930s An artist’s impression of the Tonedale Mill development
ellington is an old market town in the county Wellington’s Fox dynasty descended. District Council was abolished and replaced by the Wellington Today of Somerset close to the border with Devon. Town Council with the same powers as a parish.1 The WIt lies seven miles west of Taunton and 18 Manufacturing processes took some time to develop in opening of the M5 has seen an increase in commuter Wellington is very much the market town (albeit without miles east of Tiverton. Wellington, and in the early 18th century there was still traffic from Wellington and there has been greater a livestock market) for the surrounding villages, hamlets much poverty amongst the lower classes with travellers increase in growth in the south and east of the town and the hinterland, providing them with retail, cultural To the south lie the Blackdown Hills, an Area of Outstanding being beset by beggars on their way into the town in the than other parts of the town. and sporting activities, and educational and medical Natural Beauty, while the River Tone passes the northern area colloquially known as Rogue Green. The problems facilities. boundary of the town. of this small settlement were relieved during the later 18th and 19th centuries by the growth of the Westford Mills A large proportion of Wellington’s population travel History while the establishment of other large mills north of the outside of Wellington to work – mostly to Taunton, Tiverton, town at Tonedale led to increasing prosperity, at a time and Bridgwater, but even as far as Exeter and Bristol. Wellington first obtained its urban status in 1215 and when the cloth industries of other towns were floundering. thereafter the medieval town was deliberately laid out By the late 18th century Wellington was described as a Wellington is currently building on its agricultural heritage along the (diverted) Bristol to Exeter road to encourage fine, thriving town. and location, by becoming a nationally recognised Food trade. In the 13th and 14th centuries the town was Town. It has a monthly Farmers Market, a yearly Food moderately successful as a centre of local markets and Wellington’s communications improved in the 18th and Festival, and other smaller events throughout the year. fairs, though its principal subsidiary occupation - the cloth 19th centuries with the building of the turnpikes, the industry - was small in scale. Grand Western Canal and the Bristol and Exeter Railway Building on this ‘Food Town’ profile, Wellington is fortunate to the north of the town which drove and facilitated the to have a centre that has escaped the dominance of As a result of national economic trends, the town went into considerable northwards expansion of the town during the high street multiples and instead retains a range decline in the late 16th century but recovered in the early 17th the 19th century. The Wellington Monument, which of local, small and independent retailers. It also has its century and continued to be relatively prosperous despite stands on the Blackdown Hills overlooking the town, was own independent cinema, local butcher, nationally the Civil War. In the second half of the century it entered a completed in 1854 to celebrate the Duke of Wellington’s recognised fishmonger, hardware shop, delicatessen and period of boom, benefiting from fires and political unrest in victory at Waterloo in 1815. greengrocer – businesses which are fast disappearing the cloth manufacturing centres of Taunton and Tiverton. from many other high streets. Wellington’s independence was somewhat lost in the Consequently Wellington became a desirable base for 20th century as it increasingly became a dormitory 1 Historical notes abstracted from The Somerset Urban Archaeological Survey. established clothiers who were controlling much of the settlement of Taunton and ultimately absorbed into http://www.somerset.gov.uk/somerset/cultureheritage/heritage/projects/eus/ cottage industry, such as the Weres of Devon, from whom its administrative structures. In 1974 Wellington Urban Reproduced from Ordnance Survey map data by permission of Ordnance Survey, © Crown copyright. wellington
6 A Vision for Wellington A Vision for Wellington 7 Our Community’s Profile
his section provides an overview of the community’s Health profile. More detailed data can be obtained from Tthe referenced documents and those listed in the Wellington has two NHS doctors’ surgeries, one 11 bed bibliography. Particular reference should be made to cottage hospital and five dental practices, some of the extensive analysis of the community profile provided which accept NHS patients. by the Wellington Area Community Strategy (2006). The strategic context for this document is illustrated in a matrix The age profile of Wellington (more children and elderly at Appendix B. than Taunton Deane and South West baselines) suggests that the burden of care and support falling on the working Boundaries population is marginally higher than elsewhere.
This Vision and Plan concerns itself with the town of Leisure, Sport and Culture Wellington in Somerset, as defined by the wards of Wellington East, Wellington North and Wellington Rockwell Wellington has a diverse range of facilities including a Green and Wellington West. sports centre with swimming pool, sports and health clubs; arts and theatre groups; an arts centre and cinema. Population The Wellington Youth Centre is open three nights per week, In 2001, the population of Wellington was 12,8452 living in whilst some facilities are provided by local churches, 5,547 households. Average3 household size was therefore organisations and groups. 2.31 people which is the same as the Taunton average but slightly lower than the national average of 2.36. Wellington also has a Tourist Information Centre, a library and an independent museum. Since 2001, 262 additional dwellings have been built in The Basin’s Nature Area Wellington, suggesting that the population is now 13,450. A There is a twinning association that arranges frequent further 2000 dwellings are forecast to be built in the period to exchange visits with German, French and Portuguese towns. 2026 which, assuming an ongoing 2.3 people per household, Housing Chelston Business Park on the outskirts of the town close to will further increase the population to an estimated 18,000 Wellington provides hotels, bed and breakfasts, the M5 offers a modern business environment which has people. There was a slightly lower level of owner occupation restaurants and takeaways. House prices are much higher than wages – the average attracted a range of business types to the town including in Wellington than in Taunton Deane as a whole. house price in Taunton Deane is £224,1705, and yet distribution. Land close to Chelston and the M5 junction wages are an average of £21954.46, with many below is currently being developed into a new multi-million The age structure of Wellington’s population has a slightly Environment and Open Space this. This means that an average house now costs over pound business park containing business starter units, larger proportion of people aged 0-14 and 65+ than the 10 times the average salary. With a shortage of available office space, a hotel and restaurant, and a distribution profile for Taunton Deane or the South West but a lower Wellington is located on the northern edge of the affordable housing, mortgages becoming hard to obtain centre. proportion of people aged 15-29 and 30-64. Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and with over 2,3007 people on the Taunton Deane (AONB) and is a short distance from Exmoor National Park housing waiting list, housing is a key issue in the town. Whilst unemployment is relatively low within Wellington 98.6% of the population was white in 2001, slightly higher and the Quantock Hills AONB. There are nature reserves (only 1.1% of the population is claiming Job Seekers than Taunton Deane as a whole but much higher than at the Basins and Swains Lane, as well as many National 2000 dwellings are forecast to be built in Wellington in the Allowance8), so are wages. Wages within Taunton Deane the 91% for England and Wales. The largest ethnic Trust and heritage sites within easy reach. period to 2026. are not only below the national average, but also the minority group was Chinese at 0.46%. Since the Census regional South West average. was conducted there has been increased immigration, Wellington is a long standing award-winning entry in the Economy and Employment especially from Eastern Europe, which will have altered Britain in Bloom competition A site at Cornhill was identified as suitable for refurbishment. the local profile especially within the white population. Wellington’s economic base includes agricultural and Wellington has 22.25Ha of accessible green space. horticultural businesses, manufacturing, transport and A 2004 study of the Wellington economy9 summarised Age Profile Accessibility to green space is low in Wellington. With 1.7Ha distribution, retailing and varied services. There are a small that the town “has the highest proportion of jobs 0.500 per thousand population, there is less green space than number of large employers, including manufacturers which (amongst selected market towns) in the sectors most the settlement average for Taunton Deane. Wellington creates a vulnerability for Wellington in the event of closure. likely to grow. Put alongside the low proportion of jobs 0.375 East has the lowest level in the whole of Taunton Deane There are also many small independent companies. in declining sectors, the town appears to be one of the at 0.7Ha per thousand population4. least vulnerable. However 3 of its largest 5 employers 0.250 Swallowfield PLC benefited from the growth of its own- are in declining sectors and there has been a worrying Wellington has an historic Green Flag award-winning brand aerosol products during the 1970s and now loss of jobs in the ‘growth sectors’ in recent years. The 0.125 park. produces aerosol, cosmetic and toiletry products. Bed main business strength of the town is its location, its manufacturers Relyon was founded in 1858 and now proximity to the M5 and reasonable access to mainline 0 0-14 15-29 30-64 65+ Wellington has 163 listed buildings, and the Conservation employs some 400 people. Wellington School is also one rail services. A more subtle strength is the town’s ability to Wellington Taunton Deane South West Area covers the centre of the town. of the largest employers in the town. attract and keep a range of business types – distribution,
5 BBC News website (with figures obtained from the Land Registry) 2 Census, 2001 www.bbc.co.uk/news 8 Nomis Official Labour Market Statistics website www.nomisweb.co.uk 3 Throughout this document the commonly used word “average” has been 6 Nomis Official Labour Market Statistics website www.nomisweb.co.uk 9 Innovative Market Towns Labour Market Strategies, 2004, Somerset County used in place of the more technically correct “mean” 4 Taunton Deane Borough Council, 2005, Green Space Strategy 7 Taunton Deane Borough Council website www.tauntondeane.gov.uk Council
8 A Vision for Wellington A Vision for Wellington 9 manufacturing and higher value businesses but the of the town, although there has been no station since relative lack of facilities and quality of the town centre 1964. From Taunton railway station, Exeter is 20 minutes, are weaknesses. Wellington is said to be suffering from Bristol is 30 minutes and London is 2 hours. both a tight labour market and a lack of the right mix Regular coach services run to London. and availability of employment space. The former issue is in common with the other towns, the latter seems a National cycle route N3 passes just north of Wellington more pronounced problem, with a lack of small low cost and a future excursion loop is due to pass through the ‘nursery’ units for new businesses a particular complaint” town. Cycle facilities within the town are limited. Low aspirations amongst the population were also identified. Bristol International Airport is 1 hour’s drive to the north, and Exeter International Airport is a 45 minute drive to The study identified: the south. Significant net loss in manufacturing jobs of 20% between 1998 and 2002 Education and skills Overall 13% employment losses between 1998 and 2002 Wellington has four state primary schools (Beech Grove, Good growth in working age population is expected Rockwell Green, St Johns, and Wellesley Park: age 4-11), High reliance on manufacturing and one state secondary school (Court Fields, age Our Vision Three of the top five employers are in declining sectors 11-16). representing 1,200 jobs rising from the community consultation, our analysis of the Good proportion of employment in sectors forecast Wellington does not have a state sixth form or college – character of the town and our local needs assessment we to increase, BUT loss of employment in those sectors with students having to travel to either Taunton or Tiverton Ahave developed the following vision for Wellington in 2027: recently for further education. High proportion of unemployed who have never “Wellington will be an inclusive town proud of its people, identity worked Wellington has one private school offering primary, and history. Surrounded by protected landscapes, Wellington will be Poor performance at Key Stage 2 but good secondary and sixth form education. School facilities are renowned for the quality of its local food, its cultural industries and its performance at GCSE used by local clubs and societies. tourist opportunities. Accessibility to the M5 and mainline railway will make it a highly attractive location at the centre of the South West Shops and Services Educational achievement in Wellington is lower than and the gateway to Devon and Cornwall for many businesses who Taunton Deane. Whereas, in 2001, nearly 20% of Taunton will all contribute to the town’s vibrant and healthy economy and The town centre has been described to be poor in Deane residents had a Level 4/5 qualification, in Wellington community”. quality10 but the level of service has been identified as the figure was less than 15%. At the other end of the scale, good11. 25% of Taunton Deane residents had no qualifications, Our vision is underpinned by a need to meet the climate change while in Wellington the figure was nearly 30%13. challenge. We must ensure not only that our use of the world’s finite Local retailing consists of independent shops resources, especially carbon fuels, is continually reduced but also that complemented by Co-op and Somerfield supermarkets Crime and Safety we can adapt to changes in the national and global economy as and small branches of Woolworths, WH Smiths and Boots. climate change and statutory controls impact upon our activities and Redevelopment plans for part of the town centre retail Wellington is in the Somerset West policing district. It quality of life. areas are being promoted at Cornhill and High Street. has a police station that is staffed from 9am to 5pm on weekdays. There is one sergeant, three neighbourhood We will keep this vision at the forefront of every decision we make on There is a monthly farmers market and an annual beat managers, three PCSOs, one PCSO support officer the future of Wellington. ‘Wellington Food Town’ weekend that aims to put and one office clerk. Wellington firmly on the map as a major food destination of the South West12. In the Somerset West district, there were 64.5 crimes per thousand people in 2007/08. This compares to 88.9 per A Wellington loyalty card scheme was launched in 2004. thousand in Avon and Somerset as a whole.
Transport In the three Wellington beats there were 663 recorded crimes in 2007/08, down from 715 in 2006/07. Two major roads pass by Wellington, the M5 and the A38. The A38 diverts traffic to the south of the town, but north A Community Justice Panel was set up in March 2008 in south traffic has to pass through the town centre. response to local concerns about anti-social behaviour and the perception of low Police numbers. The Restorative The availability and cost of car parking is a constant Justice scheme aims to bring victims, offenders and source of complaint, as it is in most towns of this size. communities together to decide on the response to a particular crime. It is a new scheme that is aimed at The main South West railway line passes through the north resolving conflict and repairing harm.14
10 Innovative Market Towns Labour Market Strategies, 2004, Somerset County Council 11 Wellington Chamber of Trade & Commerce, Mystery Shopper exercise June 13 Census 2001 2004 14 Community Justice Panel leaflet 2008 & TDBC Community Justice scheme press 12 www.wellingtonfoodtown.co.uk visited 12 May 2008 release, 2008
1010 A Vision for Wellington A Vision for Wellington 1111 Our Community Our Environment & Housing
What our community needs Springtime in Wellington Park What our community needs Georgian Houses
Forecasts show that Wellington will continue to grow over Climate change, resource depletion and food security are the next twenty years, both in terms of its population size all global issues that will impact upon Wellington. The town and the physical extent of the town. At the same time, needs to take steps to make it more resilient to national and and in line with local and national trends, the profile of international trends and threats. Whether it is our jobs, our the population will become increasingly elderly. businesses, our housing, or our products; we need to safeguard our future and that of our descendents so that Wellington will We need to create and maintain a cohesive, engaged prosper. To do this we need to ensure that the economy and and inclusive community. To do this we need to quality of life of the town is resilient to global shocks, and to Aims communicate openly and coherently with the entire address environmental issues of sustainability in everything we community. make and do. To ensure that Wellington is visually attractive with buildings and spaces that are well designed and maintained. We need to promote Wellington’s history, culture and the Wellington needs to reduce the amount of waste it creates. To reduce the amount of waste created by Wellington’s arts, to support them through involvement, funding and As part of Taunton Deane Borough Council (TDBC), Wellington residents, businesses and visitors. attendance. We want to preserve our historical buildings already has a reasonable refuse collection and disposal To reduce the amount of finite resources used by and landscapes, to be proud of our culture and to with a good kerb-side recycling scheme, but it needs to be Wellington and to increase the proportion of energy from encourage all forms of art in the town. broadened to include other materials. Through cooperation renewable sources. with TDBC and the refuse companies, Wellington needs to To continually reduce the negative environmental Whilst in recent years Wellington has not experienced the Aims address the issues of retail waste in the town centre, better impacts of new buildings and developments. levels of immigration of other areas, there are some newly collection times, and the issue of reducing landfill. Wellington To protect and enhance Wellington’s green spaces. settled immigrants in and around the town. We need to To be a town that is inclusive of all its residents and needs to reduce the amount of resources that are wasted, To ensure that a range of housing types is available address how we as a community are going to welcome welcoming for all newcomers. and provide more recycling points throughout the town that to meet the needs of Wellington’s residents, including them to the town. We need to be sensitive to their needs To ensure that Wellington has a safe environment and do not require cars to get to them. sufficient supply of affordable housing. and open to their culture and interests. We need to that the town centre can be accessed by all ages at all address the concerns the indigenous population have times of the day and night. Wellington has many green spaces, but only some are open Objectives about immigration and make sure these new arrivals are To improve the provision of and participation in sports to the public. Public and private green space needs to be given every opportunity to become part of Wellington. activities in Wellington. protected not only from potential development but also from To work with Taunton Deane Borough Council planners To promote and develop participation in the arts and misuse, vandalism and abandonment. We need to increase to ensure a high quality of development control and Wellington offers a range of sporting and leisure facilities culture of Wellington. green spaces by requiring developers to provide publically management of the conservation area. and activities, which require further funding and To maintain and develop a high standard of health open green spaces. The people of Wellington need to ensure To maintain a public campaign to reduce litter, graffiti patronage. We need to increase the range of sport care in Wellington. the appropriate use of these precious green areas and help and dog fouling. activities on offer, to entice other groups into participating, To ensure that the care and support needs of local maintain them. To ensure that street cleansing services meet the needs and we need to broaden our ideas of what constitutes residents are met. of the town. ‘sports’ to introduce new initiatives such as an over 50’s In common with the rest of the country, house prices in To provide advice, support and signposts for play area, or a green gym to accommodate those Objectives Wellington have risen faster than household income. As a householders and businesses to assist them in a) reducing people not inclined to do traditional sporting activities. result many local residents have been priced out of the local the amount of waste they create, b) recycling that waste To develop initiatives and programmes to improve housing market. Access to affordable housing is essential which is unavoidable c) reducing energy and resource Vision social responsibility and tolerance amongst all sections if Wellington is to retain young people and attract in new consumption and d) maximising the use of renewable of the community. people for employment. However, this issue needs to be dealt sources of energy. Wellington will be a balanced and inclusive community To develop the information and communication with sensitively with regards to location, size of development To ensure that partners to this strategy take active steps that offers everyone opportunities to participate in the infrastructure in Wellington town so that more people and infrastructure. There will always be a need to achieve to reduce their environmental impact and resource use life of the town, its sports and its culture. It will be a safe can access and be included in events and services, and a balance between providing additional and affordable in Wellington. town to live in and its population, while normally healthy, develop a sense of belonging to the community. housing, and protecting local environmental quality, difficult To promote the planting of more trees by residents, will have access to high quality health provision when To work with the Police to ensure that the service they as this may be. businesses and organisations in Wellington, especially needed. Wellington will have a notable pride in its identity provide meets the safety needs of the town. those trees which will be resilient to climate change and and heritage. To develop closer cooperation and collaboration It is essential that Wellington attracts the necessary levels of can provide local food. between the providers and owners of sports facilities investment in its infrastructure if it is to accommodate and To work with land owners to ensure that public open Court Fields Archery Class and open space in Wellington with a view to improving sustain the level of growth predicted by the Regional Spatial space is protected and to promote its use for a wide and increasing overall sports provision (both formal and Strategy. To this end, Wellington needs to make its voice heard variety of environmentally related activities. informal) for residents of all ages and abilities. with TDBC, Somerset County Council and the government. To continuously monitor the supply of housing in To improve and develop the quality of library services Wellington and to work with planning authorities, in Wellington. Vision developers and agents to ensure that the housing mix To support cultural services in Wellington, including the meets the needs of all the town’s residents. Wellesley Cinema. Wellington will have a built and natural environment of To identify areas for new housing development, to To improve first aid and early response services. which it is proud. The town will be continually reducing its promote dialogue regarding new housing need between To develop greater cooperation between community carbon footprint while maintaining a high quality of life local residents and planners/developers, and to ensure support providers in order to reduce overlapping provision for its residents. Everyone will be able to access housing that new housing is built to a high standard of design and and to fill gaps in provision. according to their needs. environmental performance.
12 A Vision for Wellington A Vision for Wellington 13 Our Economy & Employment
South Street shops Wellington Food Town Festival, 2007
What our community needs ensure that the skills being taught are those required by Vision Objectives the market, thereby allowing future generations to remain Wellington needs to be an attractive location for employers living and working in the town. Wellington will be renowned for its food, creative and To support new retail development and businesses if it is to retain and attract the investment needed to culturally related businesses. It will have a diverse and in Wellington where they add to the diversity of the secure its economic future. This must include preserving Wellington is fortunate, and even unusual, in having stable economy that provides a range of services and retail outlets, reduce the need for shoppers to travel and creating diverse and sustainable job opportunities for avoided a ‘cloned’15 town centre. This not only provides employment opportunities for its residents and the beyond Wellington, and complement the existing retail its residents. it with a diversity in retail and service provision but also surrounding areas. Modern and environmentally efficient opportunities. Retail development that is likely to reduce strengthens the local economy. However, it also means premises will be available for all sorts of businesses, and the quantity and quality of independent retailing in the Wellington needs to consider the current and future that many people are unable to locally access the will capitalise upon the towns locational advantages. town will not be supported. needs of existing businesses in terms of locations, premises, ‘high street’ brands to which they aspire. Wellington The town will become a high quality centre with diverse To promote the use of land adjacent to Junction 26 technology, skills etc and make sure that these are needs to strengthen and capitalise on the opportunities and attractive shops. of the M5 for the development of new business units for available. Wellington also needs to show it is open to provided by its local retailers and businesses and create occupation by businesses that will bring employment inward investment, and that it can offer not only a great a vibrant individual town centre that will be attractive Aims opportunities to local residents. location, but also exceptional value to employers and to more specialist businesses. It should be a ‘location’ To identify and support organisations that will establish quality of life to employees. and ‘destination’ for shoppers and businesses alike. To To work with existing employers to meet their strategic and promote the needs of local businesses and secure this end Wellington needs to address any deficiencies in needs and to secure high quality employment for the best return for residents and other local businesses. Wellington needs to constantly monitor threats to the the variety of retail outlets; support the development of residents of all ages and skill levels. To support projects and businesses that consolidate local economy and seek to diversify its economic base a high standard and range of eateries; and provide a To promote growth in the number and range of and develop Wellington as a ‘food town’. so that it is resilient to economic shocks. This could mean one-stop destination to avoid the need to travel further businesses in Wellington especially by developing local To support projects and businesses that develop and diversifying away from manufacturing and agricultural afield. economic links and exploiting opportunities for funding. promote Wellington’s cultural heritage as a means of industries, although the importance of specialisms and To brand and market Wellington as a place for food, attracting visitors. business clusters must not be overlooked. Wellington Wellington needs to deal with the appearance of the cultural tourism and creative businesses. To support the growth of creative industries in Wellington. has employment land available through the Planning town centre and the issues of traffic management and To promote and support new business investment that Once the evidence has been established, to launch process and we need to encourage more office-based rubbish collection. Wellington needs a proud town centre brings significant and varied employment opportunities a marketing campaign that brands Wellington around employment. and a town centre of which to be proud. to local residents. its food, heritage and creative businesses as well as its Wellington needs to support the creative industries and To protect, support and promote the growth of environmental assets with a view to attracting visitors and Wellington already produces students with high skill levels cultural tourism as a driver for economic growth and social independent retailing in Wellington. new businesses. but needs to retain this workforce, and continue to expand wellbeing in Wellington. To provide premises, services and funding advice to To identify sites for the development of business it with further training opportunities. Education and training support start-up businesses. starter units and to promote their development to high bodies need to work in conjunction with businesses to 15 New Economics Foundation (NEF) environmental standards.
14 A Vision for Wellington A Vision for Wellington 15 Our Transport Our Young People & Education
What our community needs Aims
Children and young people are Wellington’s future. There To help young people be involved, engaged and needs to be easy access to a full range of education consulted on the future of Wellington. options to enable and equip them for their future. To extend and improve the range of facilities available Wellington needs to be able to educate its students to young people of all ages. until university age, and to offer those who may prefer To support and promote the emotional, creative and vocational options, the chance to follow them. social development of young people in Wellington. To ensure that there are sufficient school places to ‘Nothing to do’ is a common complaint from young meet the needs of the growing community. people throughout the country, even in big cities. To use technology and all other methods to ensure Wellington and its population is fortunate to have a wide that lifelong learning opportunities are available to all range of facilities, activities and talents. It is important that residents. these are made accessible and welcoming for young To work with employers to identify the skills they require, people, and that young people know what is available and work with schools and agencies to help them and what is expected of them. If cost is a barrier to them develop those skills. using existing facilities then there is a need to develop initiatives that lower this barrier. Objectives High Street congestion Wellington has a particular reputation for anti-social To train suitably placed individuals to engage young behaviour amongst some young (and older) people. people in debates about the future of Wellington and to What our community needs Aims Diversionary activities have a role to play in reducing feed the results into plan making and review processes. this, together with law enforcement and the support To ensure that existing and new play facilities meet the Despite being located next to Junction 26 of the M5 To reduce the impact of heavy and light traffic on the of parents. There is a need for ‘safe’ hang-out places needs of the town as the population grows. and the main South West railway line, Wellington suffers town centre environment. together with high quality centre-based and outreach To support projects that bring different generations from inadequate transport infrastructure both within the To expand the public transport options available to youth services. together and build understanding and respect between town and to neighbouring settlements. There is a need residents travelling out of Wellington. them. to increase transport options in order to reduce reliance To improve the options and quality of public transport Young people need to be involved and integrated into To ensure that formal and informal lifelong learning on the private car, improve the options for those without available to residents travelling within Wellington. the life of Wellington, not ostracised. Communication will services and opportunities are available and are access to a car, and reduce the carbon footprint of To promote and improve walking and cycling as a have a key role to play in this, as well as tolerance of developed in Wellington. transport in the town. Wellington’s future transport system viable transport option for the majority of residents of youthful exuberance balanced with firmly responding to To form a Youth Council with a range of young people needs to be inclusive, accessible and sustainable. Wellington. breaches of the law. of varying ages and backgrounds to represent the views of young people in Wellington to the local authorities Traffic management in the town centre needs tobe Objectives Vision and agencies. addressed in order to improve the quality of the local To invest in the Youth Centre in order to improve and environment, improve town centre living conditions, To encourage and work with Taunton Deane Borough Wellington will be proud of its young people, and its young expand the services offered both on and off-site. reduce road traffic accidents, and enhance the trading Council and Somerset County Council to fully explore people will be proud to live in Wellington. The town will offer To examine, support and develop safe social venues environment for local businesses. However, the wide options for removing or reducing through traffic in the town engaging activities for young people and their contribution for teenagers that are not directly linked to formal youth range of interests involved means that this issue needs centre, especially HGVs, and for partial pedestrianisation to the town’s society and culture will be respected. Formal services. to be dealt with intelligently and sensitively. The wide in order to improve the town centre trading and shopper educational achievement will be high but so will the To support projects that enable and assist young people ranging implications of understandable responses such environment. social skills of the town’s young people. Young people will to explore their creative talents and develop social skills. as pedestrianisation need to be fully examined and Developing a Northern Relief Road to reduce the use have the education and skills to meet the challenges of To work with local schools and education authorities understood before they are adopted. of the Town centre by Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) the early and mid 21st century. The quality and range of to ensure that the educational needs and aspirations of To examine the feasibility of and promote the reopening lifelong opportunities will be the highest in Somerset. Wellington are met. The public transport facilities in Wellington are poor in of Wellington railway station. comparison to many other towns. There is a need for To work with bus operators to improve services within either new or significantly refurbished bus stops and Wellington for employees and shoppers. St John’s Primary School Gardening Club shelters, clearer timetables, centralised information and To ensure an adequate supply of cycle stands in and coordination, and new transport options such as the around the town. reopening of the railway station. To promote safe cycle routes and to raise awareness of cyclists amongst car drivers. Vision To improve footpath and cycle provision by filling missing links between existing routes and providing safe Wellington will have a high degree of accessibility for and accessible paths between neighbourhoods. residents, businesses and visitors. Car use will be greatly To promote and encourage less car use. reduced and still declining in preference for public To work with businesses and retailers in order to reduce transport, walking and cycling. A new railway station congestion caused by deliveries. will give easy access to Taunton, Exeter and beyond. To promote the use of sustainable bio-fuels as an Court Fields ‘Aim Higher’ session Wellington will be a safe place to move around. alternative to oil based products.
16 A Vision for Wellington A Vision for Wellington 17 Implementation Plan Appendix A: SWOT Analysis
Strengths Threats
Diverse local economy Principal local authorities gaining more power at expense of Wellington Proximity to national motorway Neighbouring towns and conurbations attracting Natural and historical environment services and facilities
Location at a gateway to the Devon and Climate change and global resource depletion Cornwall peninsula Increasing traffic congestion
Population Northern relief road diverting trade away
Diverse housing types Ageing population
Diversity of retailing Loss of major employers State and private education provision Loss of local heritage e.g. The Wellington Widely renowned private school Monument
Health provision The ‘safety’ culture and fear of crime
Cornhill now Range of leisure and cultural facilities
Portfolio of local policies and plans mplementation of this Vision and Plan will be led by change largely lie with other organisations, such as the Wellington Economic Partnership together with Taunton Deane Borough Council and Somerset County New multi-million pound business park at Chelston IWellington Town Council. Council. Via forums such as the Local Area Partnership it is hoped that they will subscribe to this documents visions, Delivery of the Plan’s objectives is anticipated to be via aims and objectives and work with the local community individual projects that will be identified and will emerge to achieve a stronger and more sustainable Wellington. in the coming years. This Vision and Plan gives a clear statement of the direction in which the residents and When applications to funding bodies are made for businesses of Wellington want the town to develop in the specific projects that have arisen from this document, period to 2026, but the resources and power to implement additional documentary evidence will be provided. Weaknesses Opportunities
Reliance on a small number of large employers The strategic location on the M5
Traffic management / congestion within the town Undeveloped land at motorway junction
Insufficient car parking Housing and population growth
Lack of cyclepaths New development and investment proposals to support clean up of run down areas Poor public transport links Wellington Food Town as foundation for marketing Run down areas of the town and new investment
Socio-economic deprivation in specific areas of Proximity to protected landscapes and potential the town for growth in tourism
No overall vision and leadership Increasing consumer interest in independent retailers Poor online information for visitors Investment in public transport infrastructure Not responsible for own destiny Northern relief road Low profile of Wellington, what it has to offer and its strategies for the future.
Accessible facilities for young people
Artist’s impression of how Cornhill could look
1818 A Vision for Wellington A Vision for Wellington 1919 The blue shaded boxes convey similar objectives
Regional Taunton Avon & Somerset Regional Wellington Somerset Somerset’s Somerset Economic Appendix B: Deane TDBC Somerset Somerset Children & Somerset Somerset Spatial & Area TDBC Vision & Community Local Strategy Sustainable Housing Police Local Area Young Primary Economic Strategy Community Greenspaces Community Cohesion Transport for South Community Strategy Strategic Agreement People’s Care Trust Strategy for the Strategic Strategy Strategy 2004 Strategy Strategy Plan West Strategy 2005-2008 Plan 2006-2009 Plan Plan 2007 2015 South West 2006-2010 2004 2004-2014 2006-2011 England 2007-2017 2007-2010 2006-2009 2006-2026 Context 2006-2015
Wellington is a safe, clean place with no traffic congestion
Wellington is accessible to all, whatever form of transport they use
Wellington will offer a wide range of transport options that are sustainable, do the least amount of damage to the environment and are clean, safe for all to use
Wellington can educate its students from birth to university
Young people in Wellington will be interested, engaged, consulted and invested in their own futures and the future of Wellington
Wellington will offer all young people greater options for their future and lives
Wellington will provide alternative activities and support for all young people
Wellington has an inviting and stimulating town centre – the hub of the town
Wellington has an individual town centre full of small, local, independent retailers offering a great range of local products
Wellington is an attractive destination for employers
Wellington has sustainable and diverse employment opportunities for all
Wellington is a thriving economic hub for the surrounding area with low unemployment, and high skill levels
Wellington is a clean place, with comprehensive and efficient refuse collection and disposal
Wellington is conscious of its impact on the environment, and is doing all it can to reduce its impact and carbon footprint Wellington is a multi-national town that embraces all nationalities and includes them in everything Wellington is an epicentre for all surrounding villages and communities, bringing them together Wellington cherishes its history and culture, and protects these for future generations
Wellington has comprehensive sports facilities for all of the community
Wellington encourages the promotion of the arts and culture in the town, and makes it accessible to all
Wellington has sufficient housing to meet all needs
20 A Vision for Wellington A Vision for Wellington 21 Links to other plans & strategies
Wellington & Area Community Strategy 2006-2010 http://www.tauntondeane.gov.uk/Forms/WellyStrategywebbinder1.pdf http://www.tauntondeane.gov.uk/Forms/WellyStrategywebbinder2.pdf
Taunton Deane Sustainable Community Strategy 2007-2017 http://consultldf.tauntondeane.gov.uk/portal/spatialplanning/tdscs/scs
Avon & Somerset Police Strategic Plan 2007-2010 http://www.aspola.org.uk/documents/ CachedDocuments/1515_20070606163553.pdf
Regional Economic Strategy for South West England 2006-2015 http://download.southwestrda.org.uk/file.asp?File=/res/general/ RES2006-2015.pdf
Somerset Children & Young People’s Plan 2006-2009 http://www.somerset.gov.uk/media/D03/74/CYPD_Plan_final_version_ Sept_07.pdf
Somerset’s Community Cohesion Strategy 2004-2014 http://www.somerset.gov.uk/media/C9F/E5/Community_Cohesion_ Strategy_for_Web.pdf
Somerset Local Area Agreement 2006-2009 http://www.somerset.gov.uk/media/958/EE/LAA__Final_Summary_ Sept_2006_-_back_to_front.pdf
Somerset Local Transport Plan 2006-2011 http://www.somerset.gov.uk/ete/ltp/2006/index.html
Somerset Primary Care Trust Plan 2007 http://www.somersetpct.nhs.uk/about_us/G1%20Strategy%20to%20 improve%20health%20and%20reduce%20Health%20Inequalities.pdf
TDBC Greenspaces Strategy 2004 http://www.tauntondeane.gov.uk/Forms/ ExecSummaryGreenspaceStrategy2005.pdf
TDBC Housing Strategy 2005-2008 http://www.tauntondeane.gov.uk/Forms/Housing/Housing_ Strategy_2005_2008.pdf
Somerset Economic Strategy 2015 http://www.somerset.gov.uk/media/255/F9/SES_-_final_draft.pdf
Somerset Vision & Community Strategy 2004 http://www.somerset.gov.uk/media/31B/CE/SSP_-A_vision_for_Somerset.pdf
Tourism in Somerset, 2006-2010 www.tauntondeane.gov.uk/tdbcsites/heartofsomerset/business/ BusItem.asp?ID=3062&Category=Heart%20of%20Somerset%20 Trade%20Pages&CatID=905|Heart%20of%20Somerset%20Trade%20 Pages&TypeID=0&Typedesc=
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