DILLINGTON House, in Ilminster, could become a wedding venue if plans are approved.
A planning application has been submitted by Purcell Architecture Ltd on behalf of Ewen Cameron, of Dillington Cottages Ltd, owner of the estate.
The scheme outlines the “need for change” at the estate, which was leased by Somerset Council for 70 years.
Now, the council has vacated the property, and the owners of the Dillington Estate – including the grade II*-listed house – say the plans provide a “solution for the long-term future and sustainability” of the property.
The application said the council’s surrender of the lease provides “an exciting opportunity to rejuvenate Dillington House and give it a new life through creating a sustainable business”.
That business, the application says, would be to exploit the property as “an ideal venue for weddings”.
Dillington House has its origins in the 16th and 17th centuries. Picture: Purcell/Somerset Council
“The Mews Complex is already set up to host conferences and, with the accommodation available, to host residential events,” it said.
In a letter accompanying the application, Mr Cameron said: “We now hope to evolve it again and make it fit-for-purpose for our vision of how the house will be used and enjoyed.
“Naturally our goal is to celebrate and make the most of the stunning historic architecture and add to it with improvements that future generations will appreciate and be proud of.”
A range of refurbishments and changes are proposed to “enable Dillington House to function and compete in a competitive wedding venue market”.
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Changes proposed include widening some access points, providing accessible toilet facilities, refurbishing windows and removing a bar, added in the building’s history.
En-suite facilities would also be added to some bedrooms, while staircases will be added and amended to comply with fire regulations. A bridal suite would be created, overlooking the gardens to the east.
No changes are proposed to vehicle access to the house, the application said.
For more details on the application, and to comment on the plans, log on to somerset.gov.uk and search reference 25/00976/LBC.
Dillington House was leased by Somerset Council – formerly the county council – for 70 years. Picture: Purcell/Somerset Council
A number of internal alterations are planned at Dillington House. Picture: Purcell/Somerset Council
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A beautiful building and site, where I had the pleasure of working for 37 years. It’s such a shame to see it empty. It’s great to see the lovely house make more memories. Good luck to the development team. I hope the planners see the sense in the proposals