A long-abandoned industrial site at the heart of Midsomer Norton, Somerset, may soon see new life as Aldi submits plans to redevelop the space. The former Welton Bibby & Baron factory, once a key local employer and paper bag production site, has lain derelict for over a decade, drawing calls from residents for meaningful action.
Aldi has submitted a pre-application to Bath and North East Somerset Council for the extensive brownfield site, with intentions not only to build a budget supermarket but also include housing and a nursing home as part of a broader regeneration effort. A full planning application is expected to follow once the initial phase moves forward.
Local councillor Shaun Hughes, representing Midsomer Norton North, expressed cautious optimism: “These proposals, although still early in the planning stage, mark a positive step for our town. We look forward to detailed plans advancing and hope to see a full application submitted soon.”
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Hughes highlighted the challenges of redeveloping the derelict site, stating, “Welton Bag has been empty for more than a decade and, like many former industrial locations, presents substantial complexities and costs to redevelop. Moving forward with a viable development proposal is therefore very significant.”
The site was identified in the 2023 Local Plan as a strategic location for a supermarket, supporting wider goals to rejuvenate Midsomer Norton’s high street and draw fresh investment into the community.
Previously dubbed the town’s “festering boil,” the factory site’s transformation could finally bring a much-needed boost, replacing years of vacancy with essential amenities and modern housing.