A DEVELOPER with hopes of building a block of retirement flats says it will appeal the council's rejection.

Taunton Deane Borough Council voted to refuse permission for Churchill Retirement Living to build 72 flats on Tangier Way, where the former Lidl store once stood.

Churchill hoped to 'transform' the derelict site, but the authorities planning committee said the designs were not in keeping with the character of the 'predominant' site on the riverside and town centre location.

Cllr Marcia Hill: "I agree with every reason for turning this down - the design review panel absolutely ripped this down. There's so many things wrong with it: that looks like an office block with a few balconies stuck on. It's an extremely important part of the town.

"We have to dig our heels in and get what's best for the town. We need to get it right and I just hope Churchill will listen to the people of Taunton - it's a beautiful area and we don't want it trashed."

Cllr Chris Booth said the designs were 'aesthetically abhorrent and no better than Waterside House on Firepool.

Despite the committee agreeing unanimously to refuse the proposal, the developer maintains the flats are 'well designed' and intends to fight the authority's decision.

Andrew Burgess, Churchill Retirement Living’s Group Land and Planning Director said: “We are disappointed by the delay and have lodged an appeal for non-determination.

"We believe our proposed development is well designed and will transform a site that has been laying derelict for some time, providing 72 new high quality, secure, self-contained apartments in landscaped grounds in the heart of Taunton. As well as creating jobs and other benefits for the local economy, enabling older people to downsize will also free up more family housing for younger people in the area to move into. We believe it will make a valuable contribution to the area.”