A CARE home in Ilminster for elderly people with dementia could be in line for a major development if council planning bosses approve its plans.

The owners of Hazelwell Lodge, a 35-bed residential care home in Station Road, want to create 15 extra bedrooms with en-suite facilities, a lounge area and dining room.

In their plans, submitted to South Somerset District Council, joint owner Chris Ochoa says they hope to build a single and twostorey extension to the rear of the property.

He adds: “We have sought various architects and designs and eventually settled on a design that we believe will greatly enhance the appearance and facilities offered at our home.

“The home provides a safe environment that has been adapted to the unique needs of the residents to promote as much independence, mental and physical stimulation as possible.

“Hazelwell Lodge holds an important and respected position in the local community.”

Edna Maxwin took over the running of the building in 1987 with the aim of changing people’s perceptions of care homes and how people view their latter years.

She has now been joined in the ownership of the home by her son, a Mr Ochoa.

It is proposed to re-arrange five existing bedrooms at the care home to allow access to the new unit.

There will be two bedrooms lost during the demolition of the existing blocks of en-suite facilities and the creation of new internal shower rooms, but the development will see 17 bedrooms created.

The plans add: “A large main lounge area will be created with work stations so staff can monitor residents without the formal need for separate offices.without the formal need for separate offices.

“It will also feature additional dining and activities areas and incorporate a large courtyard area in the centre of the new building.

“The existing car parking area will be re-ordered and extended to meet highways standards.

“Nine parking spaces will be provided, together with four cycle racks.”