Plans have been unveiled this week to build a modern new amusement arcade and seven flats in a two-storey building in the centre of Brean.
The planning application proposes the demolition of the current Carefree Amusements in South Road opposite Brean Pontins to make way for the development of a modern new arcade on the ground floor with six holiday flats and a residential flat above.
The applicant is J. Holland & Sons Ltd, who took over Burnham-On-Sea Pavilion in 2017, and are a well-established amusement and gaming arcade operator with sites across the south and south-west.
In a planning statement, the applicant says: “The development proposed would represent a significant investment into Brean and would help improve and support its image a key tourist location in Somerset.”
“The proposal would accord with the aims of key Local Plan policies in so far as it would improve the quality and diversity of the tourist accommodation in the area, particularly by providing an alternative form of good quality holiday lets, beyond the extensive, established local offer of caravans/mobile homes.”
“The scheme would enhance the image of the area as a tourist location through the provision of a replacement, purpose-built amusement arcade and proposes a significant investment in Brean’s leisure and tourist economy.”
“The provision of modern ‘bricks and mortar’ tourist accommodation would help extend the tourism season.”
“The development of the site promotes sustainable tourism that takes account of climate change and accords with the sequential test approach.”
“The location of the site, within walking and cycling distance of many of Brean’s main tourist attractions and holiday parks, would ensure the development – both the amusements and holiday accommodation – is accessible by sustainable modes of transport. The nearest bus stop, served by a regular bus service, is 120m away, this also provides access to Weston train station.”
“The development would materially improve the character and appearance of the area. As this is a brownfield site, in a built-up area, the development of it would not harm the natural environment. The scheme would sustain and create new jobs both in the short and long term.”
The planning application covers the “demolition of the existing amusement arcade and first floor flat and the erection of a new building comprising of an amusement arcade at ground floor with six holiday lets and a single replacement flat at first floor alongside access and parking provision.”
Somerset Council started consulation on the plans on Tuesday (December 5th) and this runs until December 27th. Residents can give feedback on the application – using reference number 06/23/00013 – via the Somerset Council planning website.
