Midsomer Norton Town Council will this evening (October 10) be discussing a number of planning applications in and around town including the controversial change of use of the old Argos store.

The store is being converted into a 24 hour gym - causing worries for the local leisure centre which fears losing business. The decision for the change of use was delegated, which meant it was decided at a the next council up level.

The company behind the conversion, The Gym is looking to expand into new locations throughout the UK : In the initial application it said it has over 200 similar operations, many of them open 24 hours.

The agenda of planning issues being discussed is :

To consider a schedule of applications submitted for consultation: under 22/03679/FUL Argos 32 High Street Midsomer Norton BA3 2DW Minor amendments to elevations including alterations to building entrance, replacement of existing shutter and associated works, installation of external plant and enclosure in relation to use as Class E Gym.

Under reference 22/03809/PACOU , Old Welton Hill Farm on Binces Lodge Lane in Midsomer Norton has put in prior approval request for change of use of agricultural building to a yoga studio (Use Class E(d)).

Under 22/03801/FUL the homeowners of 19 Clapton Road in Midsomer Norton want to replace an existing hip roof with gable roof with rooms in attic space.

And under 22/03724/TCA 44 Rackvernal Road in Midsomer Norton has applied to cut down a Maple to ground level.

While at Manor Farm on Millards Hill in Welton the Forestry Commission has put in a consultation request regarding an application for a felling license. 22/03896/CONSLT