PLANS have been submitted to demolish the existing buildings at Morland in Highbridge and erect a new Community Hub.

The plans were registered on October 9 by Avalon Planning & Heritage on behalf of Sedgemoor Community Partnership (SCP).

The current Morland Community Hub is operated by SCP and comprises a community hall and separate workshop, also known as the SHED, located within the Morland residential estate in Highbridge.

The site of the buildings has been used by the community since the 1950s when the surrounding Morland Estate was constructed. The workshop (SHED) building is a pre-war ex-army hut constructed of timber and asbestos panels.

Avalon Planning & Heritage said: “The existing community hall building was constructed in 1983 and has a ply exterior and felt roof that has been repaired numerous times over the years. Both buildings have issues with rot and damp, are poorly insulated and a potential fire hazard. As such, a new replacement facility is desperately needed.”

In the autumn of 2023, a consultation was undertaken with the Morland community. 126 respondents out of 130 agreed that the Morland Hub needed to be rebuilt and sited in the same place.

Planning documents state that: “The design of the replacement facility consolidates the main functions into a single building, which will be sited on the western part of the Site further away from the boundaries of neighbouring properties than the existing hall.”

“The main entrance lobby within the building will provide access to the main hall, a kitchen, WC facilities, storage and a tearoom.”

The main pedestrian entrance will be re-located along the southern boundary, providing access from Pearce Drive.

SCP works to reach out to local people through initiatives ranging from well-being groups and social activities to specialist interest groups.

Their mission is to be an accessible focal point of the community, providing a welcoming place for people of all ages, male or female, able-bodied or disabled, to come and enjoy social and stimulating activities.

Comments can be submitted to Somerset Council using planning reference: 11/24/00053