BETTER parking facilities, an overhaul of The Precinct and improvements to both the appearance and function of the controversial Cabstand junction are just some of the works that could be carried out in Portishead later this year.

As part of an agreement with Sainsbury’s, which is building a new supermarket off Serbert Way, £500,000 has been allocated for the enhancement of the town.

A town council working party has been working with Portishead Chamber of Commerce to establish firm proposals on how the money should be spent.

The results of an open consultation meeting and a survey of more than 70 town centre businesses helped shape the proposals, which will now be discussed further with North Somerset Council.

Cllr Marilyn Koops, who led the working party, said: “This is a great opportunity for Portishead and will provide the a chance to get all those important High Street improvements made that will help enhance the town centre.

“I would like to thank all those who took part in the consultation. Using the consultation responses we now have a clearly defined list to present to North Somerset Council.”

Other items on the agenda include improved town centre signage, the continuation of community transport, landscaping in Wyndham Way and improved footpaths.

Constructions of the new Sainsbury’s store in Serbert Way is already underway. The groundwork has been completed and the steel framework is expected be put in place in the coming weeks.

Michelle Box, Sainsbury’s project manager, says work is on schedule for an October opening. (For more details about the store read our past story here)

The supermarket is about to launch an online recruitment drive to help fill the 270 full and part-time vacancies created by the new store.