THERE is still no firm start date for construction work to start on a multi-million pound riverside development already months behind schedule.

The main contractor is due to put up hoarding and a temporary car park as part of an "enabling works contract" at Coal Orchard, in Taunton.

But Somerset West and Taunton Council, which owns the land, is unable to say when construction will start on the shops, flats, offices, restaurants and a gym.

It originally announced the scheme would start in February and would be completed in 18 months.

A council spokeswoman said: "We have selected a contractor following a rigorous tender process.

"We have also let a separate enabling works contract to Midas Construction, which will include hoarding and a temporary car park. This is due to start on May 7."

Meanwhile, Martin Pakes, who lives nearby, has criticised the council for breaching a planning consent on the site by not appointing the contractor within a month of demolishing St James Pool before Christmas.

He also expressed his frustration at the council's failure to provide him with details of the phasing of the project.

He said: "Taunton should be worried that the baths site will be used for the contractors yard and will not be developed until the final phase – if at all. This is a conservation area and a shopping street."

The council spokeswoman said: "There was a breach of planning condition14 which required the council to be in contract within one month of demolishing the pool.

"However, discussions have been underway with the selected contractor to consider the most efficient and least disruptive construction programme.

"We have also been working together to ensure we mitigate as much risk from the project as possible prior to starting on a challenging site.

"Coal Orchard is a key part of Taunton’s regeneration and we have a duty to ensure it is delivered to the highest standard and at the best value for money."