A POPULAR business in Martock has been given the go-ahead to expand following the approval of plans.

Yandle and Sons have been granted planning permission to build a new craft shop, further extend the gift shop, create a new/replacement overflow car park with 98 spaces, extend the tool shop and enlarge the kitchen and café.

The enlarged café will also include “an element of retail” and the plans will also see the existing dispatch centre used as a teaching room.

A new dispatch warehouse is also proposed however is being submitted under a separate application.

The existing vehicular access to the site from Hurst will be closed with access rerouted through the existing northern access. The pedestrian access would be maintained however.

The plans, which were approved by Somerset Council on November 18, were supported by Martock Parish Council.

Yandles has evolved considerably since it was founded in 1860 by wheelwright Henry Yandle.

By the start of WW1, the company developed a successful sawmilling business and manufactured parts for gun carriages and ammunition boxes during the war.

The business now offers a range of wares and services.

Agents Symonds and Sampson on behalf on Yandles said in the plans: “The site is still used as an active sawmill however at the heart of Yandle and Sons lies the expansive Yandles woodworking centre providing a range of woodworking tools and timber.

“Classes are also offered on site for a range of woodworking activities.

“Additionally, an on-site arts and craft shop, gift and home shop, gallery, and café are available.”

To view the plans, log on to somerset.gov.uk and search reference 24/00521/FUL.