The Planning Committee of Bridgwater Town Council met on Thursday 19 March 2026 to consider a number of local planning and licensing applications. While Bridgwater Town Council is able to comment on planning matters, final decisions rest with Somerset Council’s Planning Committee.
The Committee unanimously supported the proposal to convert the upper floors of the former Barclays Bank at 26 High Street into nine residential flat units. Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Tim Mander, Chair of the Planning Committee, said
“The Committee welcomed the prospect of bringing life back into this prominent building. We were particularly reassured by the new owner’s commitment to actively pursue renewed retail use on the ground floor. Restoring vitality to our High Street remains a priority for the Town Council.”
The Committee also supported a licensing application for the proposed new café at 36 Eastover. Cllr Mander said,
“The Committee felt the café will enhance the area and provide another attractive venue for residents and visitors.”
The only application the Committee felt unable to support was the proposal to convert Unit B3 at Bridgwater Retail Park, which is currently occupied by Poundland, into a 24 hour gym. Cllr Mander explained, “We did not feel the applicant had demonstrated that there is no longer retail demand for this unit. Poundland themselves have issued a statement indicating a wish to continue trading there. In addition, the proposed 24/7 operation raised concerns regarding overnight activity.
“The current practice of closing the car park overnight has helped deter antisocial behaviour, and we were not satisfied that this issue had been adequately addressed.”
Bridgwater Town Council will continue to engage constructively with planning proposals to support development that contributes to a sustainable and well‑balanced community.
The Council’s recommendations will now be submitted to Somerset Council’s Area North Planning Committee, which holds responsibility for making the final decisions on these applications.
