Proposals to convert a Burnham-On-Sea residential home into a block of 11 flats have this week been given the thumbs-down by town councillors amid concerns about access onto the busy Berrow Road.
Plans to create 11 self-contained elderly people’s flats at 139 Berrow Road – currently Newton Lodge Residential Home – have been discussed by members of the Town Council’s Planning Applications Committee this week.
“Access onto Berrow Road at that point is very poor and further traffic would be a hazard, particularly during the summer months,” said Cllr Peter Burridge-Clayton.
“The new development would have parking facilities for 18, which could triple the use of the access lane and access onto Berrow Road.”
Cllr Joe Leach added: “This is a dangerous, fast-moving stretch of road as it is. The proposed development would make it even more dangerous.”
Councillors decided to object to the plans on the grounds that access onto Berrow Road is poor and it is already difficult to get out of the access lane into the flow of traffic.
One local resident has also objected to the plans amid concern that the sewerage facilities in the area may not be able to cope with an additional 11 flats.
The application covers the change of use, conversion and extension of the residence to 11 self-contained flats plus the formation of parking.
Sedgemoor District Council is accepting feedback on the scheme until February 22nd and will make a decision soon after.
