CONTROVERSIAL plans to transform a former Highbridge bank into flats have been supported by town councillors.

Members of Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge Town Councillors said they support the scheme to convert the former NatWest bank building in Huntspill Road into four flats, as they feel it would be a good use for the premises.

Denise Emery, town clerk for the council, said: “When considering the application, members decided to support the application as it was recognised the facade of the building limited its use, especially for retail.

“Members were pleased that the ground floor was going to be developed and supported in principle for the application of flats.

The old Nat West bank closed its doors in the summer of 2014 after bosses reported a drop in customer numbers and has remained vacant ever since.

The developer who submitted the application plans to create three one bedroom flats and one two bedroom flat on the site.

Mike Murphy, chairman of Highbridge Chamber of Trade said: “The old Nat West building has remained unoccupied for quite sometime.

“If it can be modernised and used as flats I am pleased to support the application.”

However, the plans have attracted some controversy as some residents on Huntspill Road have said they are not happy with the plans.

In a letter to Sedgemoor District Council, Mr and Mrs Dawkins, residents of Huntspill Road said: “We object to the planning application for change of use ground floor from former bank premises into four flats. 

“The proposal does not demonstrate that the commercial use has been actively and appropriately marketed. 

“The proposal is too intensive, it does not contribute to a balanced housing provision as it neither improves nor diversifies the residential offering in the area. 

“The proposal will affect the privacy and amenity of adjacent neighbours.”

Mr Matt Cole, another resident of Huntspill Road said:”There are enough flats in Highbridge at the moment but by far the biggest problem is the lack of parking.”

Comments are welcome on the application until February 14 after which Sedgemoor District Council will decide if the application will go ahead.