A BURNHAM nursing home has been granted permission to build a two-storey extension that will deliver 13 more bedrooms for elderly residents.

Burnham Lodge Nursing Home, located at 147 Berrow Road, says the extension will help “deliver an urgent need for additional bed space within the town, enabling elderly residents to reside locally whilst receiving the specialist care they require”.

The home, which was rated ‘good’ by the Care Quality Commission after its last inspection in April 2019, currently provides accommodation for 20 residents.

The planned new rear wing, which was approved by Somerset Council on Thursday, July 20, will increase its footprint from 463 square metres to 663 square metres. 

The application, submitted by APW Planning in June, says: “The proposed extension will deliver much-needed housing accommodation to meet a growing need for providing care facilities for the elderly population.

“The proposed development will provide a short-term increase in construction and related employment, and a social role by enabling residents to remain in the area.

“The proposed materials draw upon the palette of materials used in the construction of Burnham Lodge, including brick elevations, vertical tile hanging, and a pitched roof.

“The proposal also reflects the traditional materials used in the wider locality.

“The site is within a sustainable location with excellent public transport links to the town centre and surrounds.”

The plans were backed by Burnham-on-Sea & Highbridge Town Council.