A FORMER bakery due to be converted into two residential dwellings and two parking spaces has had its planning application withdrawn.

In a proposal to Somerset County Council, Mr William Bolton of Bolton Property Developments sought to subdivide the existing building at 35 Golden Hill, Wiveliscombe into a two bedroom dwelling and a one bedroom dwelling.

Although the postal address is 35 Golden Hill, the property is reached from the side lane known as Newgate Lane.

Mr Bolton, said: “The bakery building has been unused for many years and now requires comprehensive refurbishment.

“While the precise date of closure is unknown, information gathered from local residents indicates that the bakery is thought to have been disused for over 30 years.”

The existing garage parking space would have been lost as the garage was incorporated into the dwellings but two new spaces would have been formed at the lower level off Newgate Lane.

“The surrounding streetscape is typical of the Wiveliscombe Conservation Area, with a mix of rendered and stone buildings beneath predominantly natural slate roofs and generally modest two-storey forms.”

Those living near the property in Wiveliscombe strongly objected to the proposals.

Many had concerns about the narrowness of Newgate Lane and about the 17th century features of the property.

Mark Donelan, of Newgate Lane, said: “The lane is not big enough to allow any turning, so I disagree with this planning application. I am sure the stone walling would have some heritage restrictions as next door is a 17th century building.”

S F Hannam, of Newgate Lane, said: “I strongly object to this applications plan to create two car spaces for the residential dwellings exiting onto Newgate Lane. Any cars using these garage spaces would have considerable difficulty using them. Most cars can not enter the lane from Golden Hill because of the lanes extreme narrowness.

“Another difficulty would be that there is no turning space till the bottom of the lane which is private land. The stone wall which is proposed for demolition is a lovely feature of this old lane which should not be lost.

“The excavation and building work to create the car spaces would block Newgate Lane for some days and this is the only way in and out of our homes.”

The application was withdrawn.