A DECISION by West Somerset Council’s cabinet to list Minehead’s Old Hospital as a community asset has been welcomed by the group which hopes to regenerate the building.

Minehead Development Trust nominated the Grade II listed building as a community asset under the Localism Act 2011.

Its acceptance means that when owners NHS Somerset put it on the market, any community group which expresses an interest in buying it within six weeks will have six months to prepare a bid.

NHS Somerset has the right to request an internal review by the council if it wishes to appeal the decision.

Jenny Lennon-Wood, chair of the trust, said: “There was really strong support from councillors at the cabinet meeting, so I am really pleased. No-one spoke against it.

“This was the first formal recognition of the Old Hospital as an asset of community value, so I feel this is a huge step forward.

“Because of where it is as well as what it is, it can be a fantastic community hub right in the centre of town – both for local people and for visitors.”

The trust wants to create a cultural focal point at the Old Hospital, which has been standing empty since February 2011.

Plans for the building include a library, visitor centre, museum and a space for performances and exhibitions. 

Public pledges of support, which will improve the chances of grants being awarded for the project, have been streaming in already.

Jenny added: “We have been really pleased with how the pledges have been going – we have had lots of support but always welcome more.

“People can pledge as little as £1 but no money will change hands until we are ready to go ahead with the project.”

To find out more or to make a pledge, visit the trust’s website www.mineheadcommunity.co.uk