MORE than 200 jobs could be created by a multi-million pound development near Junction 26 of the M5 at Foxmoor Business Park.

The House of Somerset could cost £10-15 million and create between 183 and 236 jobs, according to a planning application submitted to Somerset West and Taunton Council.

The scheme would include a visitor centre, pannier hall and artisan workshops showcasing products including food and drink from around Somerset.

Its backers say it would attract visitors stopping off on their motorway journeys to and from Devon and Cornwall.

The plans include a 50-metre tall beacon which would act as a focal point for the scheme.

House of Somerset director Nigel Muers-Raby said Somerset has 8,500 food and drink producers and the aim was to connect them with a wider audience.

He added: “Many millions of people pass along the M5 corridor each year and we want to showcase to those people what is special about our unique county.”

Visitors would be able to shop to take away or to consume food and drink in pop-up restaurants on site, while local businesses would be able to sell items from stalls.

The environmentally-friendly visitor centre would focus on Wellington, Taunton and West Somerset, while a Wellington Monument interpretation centre would feature The Battle of Waterloo Experience.

Visitors would be able to hire e-bikes to cycle up to the monument or into Wellington.

The beacon would feature an internal lift and staircase offering 360 degree views.