PLANS to redevelop a riverside area of Taunton could land taxpayers with a hefty legal bill, it has been claimed.

Outline planning permission was granted last year for new shops, 36 homes, work space, restaurants and cafes on Coal Orchard.

Space will be left around the Brewhouse theatre and arts centre for potential future expansion.

But ArtsTaunton, which wants to boost Taunton's arts offering, has written to landowner Taunton Deane Borough Council warning of "the potential for delay and substantial legal costs".

In the letter, ArtsTaunton founder and executive director Kit Chapman says planners must "pay special attention to the desirability of preserving or enhancing the character or appearance of the conservation area".

Mr Chapman said St James Church and the Brewhouse, which both have listed buildings, have not been asked for an impact statement over the development.

He says council sources have told him the outline planning permission is needed to allow the demolition of the disused St James Pool and that approved plans can be altered at a later date.

He said: "It is impossible to properly assess the impact without any knowledge of the detailed design, layout, appearance and mix of uses proposed.

"The obvious question that a court may well consider is how can the impact be assessed in such circumstances?"

Mr Chapman said ArtsTaunton welcomed the council's Rethink document in 2014, which earmarked Coal Orchard as a cultural quarter with "a revitalised theatre and arts centre, art studios and independent shops".

"But the whole concept of a cultural hub has been diluted beyond recognition," he added.

"Everyone is agreed that Coal Orchard is a fabulous site, and it should be a magnet for the people of Taunton and visitors, but the whole scheme has been misconceived.

"What we have is pretty much a high-density commercial development - everything should be around the Brewhouse Theatre and Arts Centre, as it's the jewel in the crown."

A council spokeswoman said: β€œIn its role as landowner, Taunton Deane Borough Council has submitted an outline planning application for the regeneration of Coal Orchard.

"The comments received from ArtsTaunton are welcome and will receive due consideration. A response will be provided to address the points raised.

"In its role as local planning authority, the council will consider this letter as a representation from a partner organisation made through the planning process and it will be taken into account when the application comes before the planning committee.

"At present, the council expects this to be considered on May 24, subject to receipt of responses from statutory consultees.”