A PLANNING application has been submitted which would see indoor and outdoor play areas, a farm shop and a café built in Brent Knoll.

The plans, submitted by Jolly Jumpers Play Zone, would see Upper Battleborough Farm next to the A38 transformed into a hub of activity.

The new facilities would also feature associated car parking and footpaths.

The consultation start date was November 10, 2023.

The application's planning statement reads: “The applicant currently operates the very popular Jolly Jumpers Play Zone, an indoor soft play area for children aged up to 11 years, from a commercial building near Bridgwater, but are seeking to expand the offering to help support the business during all seasons.

“The current site, near J24 of the M5 motorway, attracts customers from as far as Yeovil, Exeter, Minehead and Bristol as well as tourists visiting the area but unfortunately it does not offer potential for expansion of activities.

“After an extensive two year search of properties to both rent and purchase within the Sedgemoor district, the Applicant purchased the Site in 2022 and is developing rare breeds of cattle and pigs as part of the farming enterprise, as well as keeping alpacas.

“The current Jolly Jumpers business is entirely indoors. Not only was this heavily affected during the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions, but it also suffers from seasonal fluctuations, being busier during wet weather but not during warmer, dryer weather conditions, although the staffing levels need to remain the same.

“The only outside space at the current site is the car park and all of this is needed at peak times, therefore not allowing for any expansion or outdoor activities. Unfortunately, the business must either relocate and expand to be able to continue economically, or face closure entirely.

“The proposed Site at Upper Battleborough Farm therefore offers the opportunity for the Applicant to expand the offering to include the current indoor play zone but also add a café, farm shop and petting farm to attract more customers year round, improving the overall sustainability of the business.”

The council is welcoming feedback on the plans until December 12, 2023.