Behind the hoardings... here's how Northgate is taking shape!
Construction continues on Bridgwater's Northgate Yard
Last updated 17th Feb 2022
We've been to see how work on the £16 million new Northgate Yard development is going - ahead of opening later this year.
The on-site team have been praised after a number of challenges - including labour shortages, Brexit, and supply chain issues - put them slightly behind, but they've since worked to bring the scheme almost back to the original timetable.
Once finished, there will be a seven-screen cinema, eight-lane bowling alley, sports bar and five restaurants.
Outside the buildings will be a refreshed green space, wildlife pond and children’s play area in Brewery Field.
The two main structures are being built opposite the Angel Place Shopping Centre, with the 'fit out' stage expected to begin in phases over the coming months.
Build manager Jonathan Owen said: "On average, at the moment, we have around seventy plus people on site a day.
"For the area, the South West and Somerset, this is a big job.
"We face a lot of challenges in the market at the moment, material shortages, deliveries, delivery drivers, Brexit, Covid.
"One of the key issues that's facing the whole of the industry - and it's been happening for a few years now is labour shortage - and it's a skilled labour shortage that's affecting us.
"We are slightly behind and that's due to material shortages but we are gaining that time back."
Stuart Martin, client project manager for Sedgemoor District Council, said: "we expect it to be hugely successful.
"We know the local people have been clamouring for leisure facilities in Bridgwater which young people right the way through to older people can come and enjoy.
"The cinema itself, Scott Cinema, are expecting 200,000 people to attend films on an annual basis and the bowling alley is 80,000 people a year.
"It's going to make a big difference to footfall in Bridgwater."
Mr Owen added: "There's Northgate Primary and we've had kids over there and the teachers over - really, really excited about the cinema and the bowling alley.
"They're really excited about the play areas that we're putting in Brewery Field."
For more about the plans click here