A COMMUNITY hub in Highbridge could be replaced with a brand new “significantly enhanced” new building if plans are approved.

The Morland Community Hub, used by the community since the 1950s, provides a “safe, supportive and empowering home” for those in Highbridge and includes a community hall and separate workshop, known as the SHED.

The Morland Community Hub is operated by The Sedgemoor Community Partnership which works to reach out to local people through initiatives ranging from well-being groups and social activities to specialist interest groups.

The hub accommodates a range of community groups including a food bank.

Avalon Planning & Heritage have now submitted a planning application on behalf of the Sedgemoor Community Partnership to demolish the Morland Community Hub and replace it with a new hub – with the erection of garden annexe and placement of storage container with associated parking and landscaping.

The proposal is to replace the existing buildings with a new low impact, sustainable community hub that will “meet the needs of the surrounding community”.

The plans say, “The replacement facility will significantly enhance the site, in terms of both function and appearance, and will provide an essential hub for local people.”

Burnham on Sea and Highbridge Town Council submitted a letter in support of the proposal.

“The Morland Community Hub provides a diverse range of community-based initiatives for all the people of Highbridge, from a community food pantry to Brownies, from bingo to art and wellbeing Groups, this centre literally is the hub of the local community,” it said.

To view and comment on the plans, visit www.somerset.gov.uk and search planning reference 11/24/00053.