Planning has been approved to redevelop the Boden Mill site in Chard, Somerset.

Architecture practice AHR and partner Alliance Leisure Services secured permission to turn develop the project, which will include a new-build leisure centre and relocated library incorporating community facilities. Future phases include further residential and commercial developments.

This work forms part of South Somerset District Council's wider Chard Regeneration scheme.

Karle Burford, Director at AHR, said: "We are thrilled that our designs for the Boden Mill site have received planning approval. We look forward to seeing the project progress and the transformational effect it will have on Chard's town centre. With exciting new places to live, eat, learn, exercise and socialise, the development will offer a holistic environment that will benefit the entire community and be something that the town can be truly proud of."

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Councillor Jason Baker, portfolio holder for the Chard Regeneration Scheme and Chairman of Area West Committee, added: "I'm pleased to see this application go through Area West Committee and for the residents of Chard to see that the District Council is committed to delivering its promise to providing a high quality leisure facility on the site, with a swimming pool which is desperately needed by the communities in and around Chard.

"The Boden Mill site has been derelict for many years now and has been an eye sore in the town centre, but with the regeneration of the site taking place over the coming years, I'm confident that this scheme will help to bring more footfall to the town centre, increase the vitality and help to boost businesses locally."

(CM/JG)