A PLANNING application to convert a listed building in Ilminster into a residential estate has been approved by South Somerset District Council.

At a meeting of its Area West Committee on Wednesday, July 16, councillors agreed to the proposed development of the site in East Street.

Under the proposals, ten houses, four flats and three commercial buildings would be built following demolition of two buildings on the site.

An underground car park consisting of six spaces would also be built for residents’ use. The plans were recommended for approval by council planning officers. However, several concerns were raised about the project.

In a public representation, Andrew Sherman, planning committee chairman for Ilminster Town Council, said: “We have reservations about access and you can’t do demolition to that extent and not upset the neighbours.”

Carol Goodall, district councillor for Ilminster showed councillors slides of traffic congestion in and around East Street in which buses were seen travelling down the wrong side of the road due to bus stops being blocked by parked cars.

She said: “I want to see this site developed but I’m very concerned about the highways. This is a disaster waiting to happen.”

Sue Osborne, district councillor for the Windwhistle ward, said: “If there are only six parking spaces to 14 residences, how will they be allocated?”

Planning officers said this would be a matter for the developer to resolve and said that, on balance, the benefits of the proposed development outweighed the negatives.

David Bell, speaking on behalf of the applicant, said: “The site is in an excellent location to take advantage of facilities on its doorstep.

“Access has been looked at in detail and I can only advise that this application is judged on its own merits.”

The application was approved by ten votes to three, on the condition that adequate access for mobility scooters be provided and ward members are consulted over building work.