THE proposed new Holiday Inn planned for North Petherton could be set to expand to 138 rooms.

In 2015, Zeal Hotels gained permission to build a 120 bedroom hotel on land designated the Bridgwater Gateway, off Huntworth Roundabout.

In 2016, consent was gained to expand this 128 rooms, and now the developers want to up this again to 138 rooms, but must gain the backing of Sedgemoor District Council development committee at the meeting on Tuesday, August 29.

However North Petherton Town Council has objected to the latest addition saying there is not enough car parking and this will add to existing traffic problems in the area. The council also argue that this expansion would constitute overdevelopment of the site.

The plan is for the Holiday Inn to be a five storey building with 60 car parking spaces and 12 cycle spaces.

Since the hotel was initially granted, a number of subsequent plans have been submitted by different applicants in close proximity to the site including redevelopment of Compass House for office use, the construction of a new public house, a car dealership, a new aquatics centre and a new food processing business.

Planning officer Rebecca Miller states in her report: "The proposed hotel would be a positive addition to the number of tourist and bed spaces locally.

"Employment opportunities will arise through the construction and operation of the hotel business."

The expansion is recommended for approval by the council, with Mrs Miller concluding: "The amendments that are sought are minor in nature and will not have an adverse impact on the originally approved development, and sufficient parking will be provided."

Her report also states that the design is 'well considered' and, though taller than surrounding development, will

'integrate successfully within its surroundings'.