THE old doctors' surgery in Wiveliscombe could soon be turned into a house.

Plans have been lodged to convert the vacant Bollams Mead site into a one-storey home after it was bought by a couple in Derbyshire looking to move to the area.

Alan and Jane Taylor have applied to Taunton Deane Council for planning permission and a public on-line consultation period will run until July 14, with planners hopeful of reaching a decision by mid-August.

In a letter to neighbours, the couple said: “We have been looking for a house to move into the Wivey area for some time and we came across the surgery building by accident.

“Although we were looking for a 'house', we could not resist the challenge of re-working the surgery building for a home.”

The premises have stood empty since December when staff moved to a state-of-the-art £2million facility on Croft Way.

It was put up for sale as a commercial building for around six months but due to a lack of real interest was marketed as a potential residential property.

Plans include knocking down the separate building at the side to create a garden area, as well as alterations to give a “domestic feel.”

As reported in the County Gazette, the new facility was built to accommodate a patient roll of 6,800 after years of campaigning.

Emma Spiller, practice manager at the new Lister House Surgery, said: “The new owners have been in touch to let us know.

“Personally, I think their plans will be ideal for that area as a residential property is much more in keeping and I wish them well with the application.

“It will be nice to see the old surgery brought back to life again.”

To have your say on the plans, visit the Taunton Deane Council website (application number 49/14/0034)