A POPULAR Somerset restaurant has closed its doors for good and could be converted into a house if plans are approved.

Clavelshay Barn, a restaurant based in North Petherton, closed its doors in September 2019 with a view to open only for pop -up events, parties and workshops.

These events carried on until March 2020 but Covid-19 restrictions meant that all events had to be cancelled and were unable to take place in 2020 and early 2021.

The owners said a combination of these restrictions and the uncertainty of the future meant they have taken the decision to leave the hospitality business and convert the building into a house which they will let.

Sue Milverton, owner of Clavelshay Barn, said: “It is a huge decision to make and a sad one in many ways.

“We shared special celebrations with many people and have made lasting friendships through the restaurant.

“It was 15 years of hard work but made enjoyable by our lovely customers and staff.

“We are very proud of the reputation we had for good food and have many memories to treasure.

“This is a new direction for us which most importantly will enable me to share the care for my parents, who are in their 90’s physically frail but who live in their own home with my help and that of my brother.”

Over the years Clavelshay Barn has won a number of prestigious awards including a Sedgemoor Business Excellence Award. It has also taken part in a number of Somerset events including Exmoor Food Festival and has had a number of top chefs including Olivier Certain.

The application is currently under consideration by Sedgemoor District Council. If you would like to view the application visit www.sedgemoor.gov.uk and type in application number 37/20/00107.