A CHARITY plans to build a two-storey cancer caring centre at Taunton's Musgrove Park Hospital.

A planning application for The Maggie's Centre on a plot of land at Galmington Playing Fields next to the hospital campus has been lodged with Taunton Deane Borough Council.

The facility would offer "practical, social and emotional support" for cancer patients and families and friends.

There would be information about cancer and its treatment, a course focusing on relaxation techniques, hair loss support, advice on managing visible side effects of treatment, support after treatment and activities such as cooking, yoga and gardening.

It is anticipated it would cater for 7,500 visits a year if the project wins planning permission.

The building would include a kitchen, exercise room, library, multi-purpose room, counselling room and open and quiet sitting areas.

Maggie's has declined to comment at this stage.

The proposed site would be leased to Maggie's by the council, which owns the park, and currently houses a playground for under fives.

A report submitted with the planning application says the development would be "full of light and open space" and would be "an uplifting place" before, during and after treatment.

It adds: "Maggie’s and Musgrove Park Hospital are working together to create a vital new centre for the people of

Somerset.

"The new building will be nestled within the landscape and will provide a calming, sanctuary space for people with

cancer and their family and friends to receive support and advice."

Dr Stuart Walker, chief medical officer at Musgrove, said: "We are pleased that Maggie’s is planning to develop a centre in Taunton as this would greatly benefit our patients, who would be able to access additional free practical, emotional and social support.

"We look forward to working with Maggie’s in the future."

The charity was jointly set up by Maggie Keswick-Jencks, who lived with advanced cancer for two years, during which time she used her knowledge and experience to create a blueprint for a new type of care.

Maggie’s Centres are built around her belief that people should not "lose the joy of living in the fear of dying".