PLANS to convert a vacant three-storey building in the centre of Burnham-on-Sea into a retail unit with eight apartments have been resubmitted.

The plans to convert the building, at 15-19 Regent Street, were granted approval in 2020 – but as the permission has now lapsed and the work not yet completed, a new application has been submitted.

Previously home to an employment agency, the site has been empty for 13 years, the application said.

If approved, the plans would see the ground floor converted into a retail unit, with eight apartments developed above – four apartments on the first floor and four on the second.

Picture: APW Planning Consultants

The configuration provides for a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments, with open-plan kitchen/living areas, bathroom and storeroom, the application said.

Access would be via a central staircase, with separate external access from High Street. The proposal also includes bin and bicycle storage on the ground floor.

The application also includes minor alterations to the building, including increasing the height of the southern portion of the main roof to match the existing three storey Regent Street elevation, to facilitate the residential layout on the upper floor.

Agents, APW Planning Consultants, said in the application: “The design will restore this traditional building bringing it back to life and adding vibrancy to the town centre, preserving key architectural detailing, and using a sympathetic palette of materials to enhance its appearance.”

It added: “The site is well located to the services and amenities of the town centre.

“The development would also give rise to some economic benefits during the construction phase, enhance the vitality of the town centre, and provide additional support to local services through increased patronage.”

To view and comment on the plans, visit www.somerset.gov.uk and search reference 11/24/00064.