A BUNGALOW on the Somerset Levels could become an ‘eco-friendly wellness retreat’ if plans are approved.

Plans have been submitted to Somerset Council to change the use of a property at Atlasta Farm, in Shapwick Road, Westhay, for a period of five years.

Tim Burton Planning Ltd has submitted the application on behalf of Miss Kala Hale, of Alak Health & Beauty Spa.

The plan said the site – opposite the Avalon Marshes Centre – would be used “on a temporary lease”, with the five-year permission allowing “the building to revert to a residential use without the need for further consent”.

Opening hours are expected to be between 10am and 8pm, the plans said, “at which point all lights will be turned off to avoid light pollution”.

“We have approached the Avalon Marshes café with regard to providing food as required and they are on board with this,” it went on.

“All signage will be made discreet and of natural materials, one placed at the roadside entrance without obscuring any visibility to the road, and another on the side of the building without lighting.”

The application said the venue expected a maximum of six clients visiting the site at any one time, plus a staff of three full-time employees.

“The aim of the business is to provide a wellness retreat for the residents in the surrounding area and tourists alike,” the application said.

“We will offer a range of treatments using all natural products (which are refillable) and environmentally friendly.

“We also want to provide nurturing experiences for individuals undergoing medical treatments, especially for those navigating the challenges of cancer, providing holistic healing for the wellbeing of the individual.

“This is going to be a very bespoke service offering individual or small group bookings (but not celebratory groups).”

The site presented a “quiet and peaceful location away from disturbance”, providing the atmosphere required for such a business, the plan said.

READ MORE: 60-bed hotel part of eco-friendly services plan for site off A303 
READ MORE: Fresh plans for A37 services at Shepton Mallet submitted

“The location adjacent to the Avalon Marshes Centre will encourage complimentary visits,” it added. “There is existing carparking with in the building curtilage for up to 10 cars if needed.

“This number will far exceed the needs of the business. There is turning space within the driveway so cars can enter and exit in the correct manner with good visibility splays.

“There are no entrances to the Avalon Marshes Centre opposite our entrance so conflicting traffic movements will be minimised.

“Carpooling for staff will be essential and clients will be encouraged to carshare. It is also on a well-used cycle route and bike racks will be provided.”

For more information on the plans, log on to somerset.gov.uk and search for application reference 2024/1035/FUL.