Derelict factory could be turned into supermarket

James DiamondWest of England
News imageGoogle The former Welton Bibby & Baron site. A two-storey building casts a shadow over the road. To the left of the building is an entrance to the site with a metal gate, which is open. Google
The former Welton Bibby & Baron site has been derelict for more than a decade

A derelict paper bag factory could be turned into a supermarket, nursing home and housing according to provisional plans.

Budget supermarket chain Aldi has submitted a pre-application to Somerset Council regarding the former Welton Bibby & Baron site in Midsomer Norton, meaning a full planning application could follow.

The site was identified in the council's Local Plan in 2023 as a possible location for a supermarket.

Councillor for Midsomer Norton North Shaun Hughes said the news was a "positive development" for the town as the site had been vacant for more than a decade. The factory was once a major employer in the town.

Hughes said the site - like many with former industrial buildings - presented "significant challenges that make development complex and costly".

"Progressing a viable scheme for this location therefore represents an important step forward," he added.

A spokesperson for Aldi confirmed the pre-application had been submitted but declined to comment further.

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