A former library in North Petherton, Somerset, severely damaged by a storm, is set to be converted into residential housing despite opposition from local councillors.
The North Petherton library, which operated on the ground floor of 1 Quantock Parade, was forced to close and relocate in September 2022 after its roof was blown off during a storm, allowing water to damage the interior and rendering the space unsafe.
Since then, the building has remained vacant for nearly three years. Now, Taunton-based Black Heart Developments has applied for planning permission to transform the site into a one-bedroom flat. The proposed layout includes a kitchen-lounge area, bedroom, bathroom, hall, and storage space.
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Local councillors pushed for the space to be retained for commercial use rather than residential, aiming to preserve retail units along Quantock Parade. However, Somerset Council’s Planning Committee North approved the change of use during their meeting in Bridgwater on October 14.
The building is situated at the eastern end of Quantock Parade, across from the town’s community centre where the library has relocated. While the property does not offer designated parking, it benefits from proximity to the 21 bus route connecting Taunton, Burnham-on-Sea, Bridgwater, and nearby towns.
Council leader Bill Revans, representing North Petherton, voiced concerns against the plans. He highlighted the loss of retail spaces in the area, noting that three shops on Quantock Parade have already been converted into flats. Citing market pressures, he stressed that residential properties currently yield higher profits than retail units, partly due to demand from private rentals connected to workers at the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station.
“The library was forced to move – the wind blew the roof off the building, and water ingress meant it was not safe to remain open,” Revans stated. “This was a retail unit before 1980 when the library opened, and it should return to retail use.”
Despite his opposition, some councillors were more accepting of the housing plan. Councillor Alistair Hendry pointed out the lack of commercial interest since the building was put on the market in January 2024 but felt the change would not impact the character of the area. Councillor Bob Filmer supported the proposal, emphasizing the urgent need for this type of accommodation in the district.
After nearly 30 minutes of debate, the committee voted in favor of the conversion by nine votes to three, allowing the building to be transformed into housing.