The former Sportsman pub on Bath Road in Bridgwater, closed for six months, may soon be transformed into a convenience store pending council approval. The pub, located at 73 Bath Road near the corner of Union Street, ceased operations in late November 2025. Landlords John and Debbie Dee announced the sale on social media, describing the pub as an “excellent and popular” venue before it closed.
Now, local entrepreneur Jig Patel has submitted plans to convert the building into a 204-square-meter convenience store. The proposed development will keep the existing first-floor accommodation untouched, while adding a new secure entrance with a door and roller shutter. The site will maintain its current two car parking spaces and introduce six new cycle parking spots.
The store is expected to operate daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., creating up to three full-time and four part-time jobs for the community. Clive Miller Planning, representing Mr. Patel, highlighted that the change of use does not diminish local services, but rather replaces one with another. While alternative pubs like the Cross Rifles and the New Market Hotel serve the area, convenience store options are limited, with the nearest being Bath Street News, which has restricted hours.
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Bridgwater Town Council has expressed support for the proposed change but urged that the iconic bay windows of the building be preserved if possible. Somerset Council is anticipated to make a decision on the application by early autumn, though it remains uncertain whether the decision will be made publicly by the planning committee or by officers exercising delegated powers.
As the community awaits the council’s verdict, this proposal represents a potential revitalization for a beloved local site, shifting from social hub to essential retail service.