BRENT Knoll Village Shop could close its doors for good if plans to convert it into an annexe are approved.

Applicant Ms Chennells is seeking planning permission to change the use of the shop and convert it into a one bedroom annexe with a garden area and two parking spaces.

The plans have been submitted just weeks after Brent Knoll's Post Office counter temporarily closed following the resignation of the postmaster.

In a design and access statement the shop's owners said the shop has experienced a 'massive fall' in footfall leading to an 'unsustainable decline in takings'.

The owners said if footfall does not increase in the next six months they will have no option but to close the shop.

The statement said: "Brent Knoll Village Shop is a failing business which does not have a future, if it was a Tesco Express it would have been closed at least five years ago.

"The population of Brent Knoll is a typical mix of retired, young families and farmers.

"Traditionally older people have been the main clientele for a village shop and as this generation dies the younger generations do not replace them in patronising the shop.

"Over the past 12 years I have seen a steady decline in takings as my traditional clientele dies out.

"The failing footfall means less revenue and maintaining stock levels has become increasingly difficult.

"Since 2007 I believe I have tried everything within my power to promote the shop, creating a website and an online presence, attending local events, advertising in the parish magazine, local newspapers and offering a local delivery service.

"The Post Office is temporarily closed and I very much doubt it will re-open soon.

"Less than 15 per cent of residents use the village shop and this figure is falling annually."

Comments are welcome on the application until November 9 after which it will be considered by Sedgemoor District Council.

To view the application visit sedgemoor.gov.uk and type in application number 07/19/00028.