Taunton Urban Design Framework - Taunton Deane Borough Council

Block StructureA development block is created by the grid of streets whichsurrounds it. Large blocks are inflexible, create unsaferoutes and do not promote active ground floor uses.Smaller blocks provide a greater choice and variety ofroutes and will encourage retail and leisure activity atground floor level.One of the more significant characteristics of the towncentre blocks is their sheer size. From Tangier to Firepoolthe length of blocks can exceed 300 metres. These lengthsrun parallel to the River Tone’s edge and reduce access tothe riverside.The two largest blocks in the central riverside area arebetween Station Road, Priory Bridge Road, Bridge Streetand St. James Street. This is where Safeway and the CountyCricket Club are located. Both these blocks are more than300 metres long and form a significant barrier to movement.Existing block structureProposed block structure indicating lively uses28 Extending The Town CentreSection 3Taunton UDF