Plans are underway to convert the former Lloyds Bank building at the corner of College Street and High Street in Burnham-on-Sea into four new flats. Lloyds Bank closed its branch there in November 2024, leaving locals to rely on the Nationwide branch and the Post Office for their banking requirements.
Darren Clapp received planning permission in April 2026 to refurbish the first and second floors for residential use. Alongside this, he proposed enhancements to the building’s external appearance. However, Somerset Council’s planning officers expressed concerns over the proposed replacement of the building’s original wooden window frames with uPVC, stating that this change could harm the character of the town’s conservation area.
Despite these objections, the council’s planning committee, which oversees major applications in the former Sedgemoor area, overruled officers and approved the plans at a meeting in Bridgwater on 11 August. The committee prioritised the urgent need for housing over strict adherence to traditional conservation guidelines.
Mr Clapp addressed the committee with a passionate plea, emphasising his commitment to preserving the building. He said, “I support conservation. I understand why we protect important buildings and why we must maintain their character and appearance. I’m not asking you to compromise this building – I’m asking you to allow me to protect it for the future.”
Highlighting the challenges posed by the seaside location, he added, “We are approximately 100 yards from the sea, which means salt, wind and rain - an extremely demanding environment for timber. The existing wooden window frames are in poor condition and need replacing.”
He explained the financial implications: installing new timber frames would cost around £152,000, compared to £43,000 for uPVC windows that feature heritage-style wood grain. “The alternative can provide the heritage appearance we want while offering better longevity, energy efficiency and reduced maintenance,” he noted.
Mr Clapp also intends to reinstate the building’s marble frontage following removal of the former ATM.
Local councillors largely supported the proposal. Councillor Matt Martin (Liberal Democrat, King Alfred) acknowledged the importance of conservation but questioned the practicality of enforcing outdated rules that could add substantial costs without clear benefit. “We’d be forcing him to satisfy an arcane rule in a dusty tome and spend an extra £109,000,” he said.
Councillor Mike Murphy (Liberal Democrat, Burnham-on-Sea North) pointed out the diverse architectural styles in College Street and praised the applicant’s intention to renew the building’s stone and marble features. He expressed confidence in modern uPVC’s suitability for heritage buildings.
Councillor Tony Grimes (Conservative, Brent) underscored the harsh coastal conditions, describing timber windows as a “false economy.” Councillor Hilary Bruce (Labour, Bridgwater North and Central) highlighted the local demand for affordable one-bedroom homes and warned that increased costs might jeopardise the project’s viability.
Councillor Alan Bradford (Conservative, North Petherton) raised concerns over timber supply issues due to global deforestation and fires, reinforcing the economic argument against timber frames.
Following approximately one hour of discussion, the committee approved the plans by a vote of nine to one, allowing the conversion and material changes to proceed.
This decision marks a significant moment in balancing heritage conservation with the pressing need for housing development in Burnham-on-Sea’s conservation area.