ONE of the largest hotel brands in the world is looking at coming to Taunton.

Bosses at Hilton Hotels have discussed the possibility of building a hotel at Firepool, next to the Viridor HQ.

Currently the company, which caters for business and leisure travellers, has a presence in major cities, including Exeter and Bristol, and near airports, although it does not currently have any hotels in Somerset.

The County Gazette understands talks have already been held between Hilton representatives and local sources, although a spokesman has declined to confirm the company's interest or otherwise in Taunton.

He said: "Somerset is an area where we see opportunity for the development of our portfolio, but we have no further updates at this time."

A proposed multi-million pound development at Taunton Deane Borough Council-owned Firepool, which housed Taunton Livestock Market until it closed ten years ago, includes mention of a possible hotel on the site.