Works are due to start on 24 July 2023 on improvements to the Higher Bullring in Cullompton. A new square will be created around the war memorial, enhancing its heritage setting. There will be new high-quality paving, drainage, benches, planters, cycle parking and bins as well as a new bus shelter with a green living roof. The works seek to create a larger, more flexible and functional public space that can be used for events and activities.

The works will be phased during the five-month construction period to minimise disruption. However, during the first few weeks there will be temporary traffic lights, with an inevitable impact on traffic flow.

The improvements form part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ), a national project led by Historic England which aims to unlock the potential of High Streets across England, making them more attractive, engaging and vibrant places for people to live, work and spend time.

Cullompton is one of only 10 places in the Southwest to receive funding. Historic England is providing £1.1million, together with match funding from Mid Devon District Council, Devon County Council and Cullompton Town Council to deliver this project.

The Higher Bullring project is being led by Mid Devon District Council and designed and delivered by Devon County Council on the district’s behalf. It is the first in a number of improvements that the councils are working hard to bring forward in the Cullompton area. 

The Town Centre Relief Road remains a priority. Both councils are committed to the scheme and have resolved to bid for funding for the scheme in the next round of the Government’s Levelling Up Fund.  Work to develop a business case for improving long-term capacity at Junction 28 continues, with the expectation of the County Council submitting a bid for funding in 2024.

Steven Keable, Cabinet Member for Planning and Regeneration at Mid Devon District Council said:

“This project will see a programme of improvement works to re-invigorate the town centre and attract investment. Investment in the town’s heritage will act as a catalyst for wider economic and social regeneration. Significant investment in Cullompton infrastructure is needed to ensure that local residents and visitors enjoy the quality of life that they deserve. The Town Centre Relief Road remains a priority for the District Council and we will continue to lobby for national investment into our essential infrastructure.”  

Stuart Hughes, Cabinet Member for Highway Management at Devon County Council, said:

“We are delighted to be involved in this project which will improve the public realm in this part of the Town. This is anticipated to be the first phase of other improvements to the High Street that can come forward once the relief road is delivered. We will work with businesses and residents to minimise disruption to the highway during the construction period.”

Rebecca Barrett, Regional Director at Historic England said:

“We recognise high streets are facing new challenges, but they can continue to be a powerful focus for local commerce and for the local community. The investment in Cullompton’s historic buildings and public spaces will stimulate and encourage economic activity as the town centre grows and adapts.”

As well as the Higher Bullring public realm improvements, there are two other elements in the Cullompton HSHAZ:

• A grant funding programme is available for property owners and lease holders to invest in the repair and restoration of their properties. Funding of up to 70% is available for properties along Fore Street and in the wider HAZ area. This funding needs to be spent by March 2024, and owners are being encouraged to come forward and apply for a grant.
• A cultural programme of activities in the town centre, in conjunction with Creative Cullompton, to celebrate the town’s history.

For information and updates about the Higher Bullring improvements, please refer to Mid Devon District Council website:

Cullompton High Street Heritage Action Zone