A FARM shop off the A39 next to Dunster Lawns has been proposed to be converted from a run-down agricultural building.

The Dunster Estate is seeking planning permission from Exmoor National Park Authority for the project at Home Farm.

Planning agent Adam Elston, of Architectural Studio South West, said: “The proposed shop would be used in conjunction with the existing farm complex and therefore primarily selling products that have been produced within the estate

“It is also proposed to use the forecourt, to the northeast elevation of the building, as part of a display area for the local produce.

“This application seeks consent to change the use of the existing agricultural building to be used as a farm shop, to include minor alterations to the external elevations of the building.”

Mr Elston said the nearly 19,000 sq ft building had previously been used as a dairy for the farm and was a single-storey structure with painted render elevations under a corrugated sheet roof.

He said the change of use of the property to a farm shop in itself did not need permission because farm buildings could be converted to commercial use under planning class R.

However, consent was needed from the park authority for the necessary external alterations to the building.

Mr Elston said timber cladding would be fixed over the existing painted render elevations of the building and windows replaced with Upvc double glazed casements in an estate green colour.

He said: “These alterations are necessary to improve the aesthetics and weather tightness of the building and increase security.”

Mr Elston said the estate was ready to start the project as soon as planning consent had been received.

The national Park authority is asking for any public comments on the plans to be submitted by October 9.