A DECISION on expansion plans for Halsway Manor is due to be made today.

The folk arts centre in Crowcombe submitted plans to West Somerset Council in January to repair the Manor House, build an activity centre and new performance space and more overnight accommodation.

West Somerset Council will decide at a planning meeting at 4.30pm this afternoon if permission will be granted for the three separate applications.

A statement on Halsway Manor's website says: "The Board of Trustees have launched plans to develop the facilities so that people of all ages and abilities can access Halsway Manor more easily and learn about the folk traditions found in England and further afield."

Plans for the Manor House include making more of the building accessible to visitors and refurbishing spaces for learning including increased space for the library and a new dining room.

A timber-framed Activity Centre would 'provide new spaces for arts and crafts activities while being an exciting space for use by schools, young people and families to do a wide range of folk activities.'

The new performance space would be homed in a new building adjoining the manor for teaching space for dance and music as well as a venue for dances, concerts and celebrations. 

Finally, plans were submitted to build new accommodation to the rear of the Manor to provide extra bedrooms, improve access to the gardens, woods and grounds and more parking and better camping facilities. 

You can read more about plans here.