Highbridge’s last bank building looks set to be turned into flats after a planning application was backed by town councillors this week.
The former Nat West bank building in Huntspill Road closed down in the summer of 2014, as we reported here, and has been vacant ever since.
A planning application for a change of use of the property and the conversion of the ground floor to four flats was considered by members of the council’s Planning Applications Committee at their meeting on Monday night (February 20th).
Cllr John Parkes said: “I have previously registered my unhappiness about this scheme – there are parking issues there, and many residents don’t want to see more flats. Some residents tell me it would be better used as a museum.”
Cllr Andy Brewer added: “I would prefer to see fewer flats, but I think a development is right here.”
Cllr Bill Hancock added: “Its better to see this site developed rather than left empty and vandalised.”
Councillors passed the plans with no observations. The final decision rests with Sedgemoor District Council.
The building was built as Stuckey’s bank in 1877 and a blue heritage trail sign in place on the building, pictured here, recalls its past use.