Burnham-On-Sea’s MP has this week praised the progress of the redevelopment of the former Highbridge Hotel during a visit to the site.
James Heappey was given a tour of the new building by owners YMCA and the contractors working on the long-awaited revamp of the fire-hit site. Construction is ‘on track’ to be completed this summer.
The former hotel was severely damaged by fire in 2008 and 2011, before the
YMCA took control of the site in 2014.
The project will deliver a new community hub with a café, sports hall and dedicated meeting spaces alongside 23 homes for vulnerable young people.
MP James Heappey told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “YMCA and their contractors John Perkins Construction have made really great progress with the build so far and I’m excited to see the finished product later in the summer.
“The space inside is impressive. The community space downstairs will be a really welcome addition for Highbridge whilst the accommodation on the first and second floors will provide spacious and comfortable homes for some of the most vulnerable young people.”
“After such strong opinions were expressed by the local community, it’s also reassuring to see how much effort has gone in to recreating the facade of the old Highbridge Hotel.”
“This will be an impressive ‘gateway’ building for those entering Highbridge from the south and is very welcome after the site has stood derelict for so long.”
The project is being funded by the YMCA, Sedgemoor District Council, and Homes England.
Local historians say the hotel was likely founded in the late 18th century and it has been a landmark at the entry to the town for years.
When the Cattle Market closed in 2007 the Highbridge Hotel was secured to prevent tresspass and authorised entry, however the building was subject to several acts of arson and was gutted by fire in 2008.
The structure of the building was destroyed to such an extent that substantial fire clearance works were required to make the buildings safe. Work to clear the building was agreed with Sedgemoor District Council.
As part of the fire clearance works and in agreement with the Conservation Officer and English Heritage, work was undertaken to support the main building facade to ensure its main feature was protected.
