PLANS have been submitted to convert a former Nynehead pre-school into a residential building.

The former Under-5s pre-school site, in Nynehead Hollow, was purchased by John and Clare Dodden last year.

The couple have now submitted a planning application to internally convert the building to residential use, utilising the surrounding land as domestic garden space and new residential access.

The Old Nynehead Primary School, which had a capacity of 52 pupils, closed in August 2010 after a negative Ofsted Report. The school was relocated to nearby Oake, and the building was subsequently used as a pre-school which also closed nearly three years ago.

As the former Nynehead Under 5 Pre-school site has since remained unused, the new owners are seeking to convert the property into a single dwelling to reside in themselves.

Planning consultant Naomi Jackson has said: “The intention of Mr and Mrs Dodden is to retain the original form and appearance of the school building.

“The proposed residential use is considered to have a minimal impact in this location and it will remain in keeping and compatible with its residential surroundings.”

Ms Jackson also indicated that if the former school were to remain a commercial building, this could result in traffic build up and have an adverse impact on the surrounding area, as opposed to a singular dwelling with off-road parking.

Members of Nynehead Parish Council say they agree that the old school building in Lower Nynehead is no longer viable as an educational establishment.

The planning application is currently under review and the members of the public to can offer their views as part of a public consultation which will end on March 7.

To find out more about the proposal, visit www.somerset.gov.uk/planning-buildings-and-land and search number 26/25/0001 to view the planning application.