Introduction
In Paulton the decline in coal mining brought opportunities in manufacturing and, notably, printing, with the print works on the lower slopes of the Cam Valley being a major employer for the settlement before it finally closed in 2005. Following the demise of Purnell’s printworks, house building has expanded northwards and, in the northeast of the village, there is a concentration of recreational/sport facilities including Paulton Sports Club, Purnell’s Bowls Club and the Cam Valley Sports Club. Paulton High Street is narrow with narrow footways meaning the area is dominated by the car. The Paulton Memorial Hospital is positioned to the south of the village along the B3355. Paulton is served by one primary school and a pre-school.
Paulton Conservation Area is split into several parcels, with the original part of the Conservation Area focused on the core of the village located on a ridgeline. As with Radstock, the designation reflects the coal mining and industrial heritage of the area as represented by the buildings and landscape surrounding the village.
- Paulton has good public transport access to Bristol and Bath however, opportunities to access other destinations are limited.
- The village is surrounded by green hillsides which are integral to its landscape character.
- The village’s mining heritage has shaped its landscape character.
- The village has been subject to substantial growth to the north.
- Provide homes to meet the needs of the local area, including provision of homes that are affordable.
- New development should enable a greater choice of transport via sustainable and active travel (walking, cycling, wheeling and public transport). New development can link into the existing public transport network allowing for buses to become more viable.
- Ensure built and natural environments promote health and wellbeing for all.