AMBITIOUS £1.4 million plans to create a Bridgwater Oasis in Chilton Trinity have hit a snag.

Bridgwater-based charity, Lower Lakes CIO, which runs recreation and events for schools, colleges and local charities is looking to transform its facilities to benefit the area.

The building currently on the site near the lake near Straight Drove at Chilton Trinity includes a meeting room, toilets and reception area, with a barn used for the storage.

However Lower Lakes CIO has put together an ambitious plan to add cycle paths and footpaths and provision for equipment hire including bikes, archery, paddleboards, and kayaks and pond dipping equipment.

The project faces possible delays though as West Somerset Council's Cabinet recommended a bid for £410,900 for Hinkley C Community Impact Mitigation funding be turned down, as it did not 'sufficiently meet the funding criteria'.

Lower Lakes CIO trustee Peter Savage said: "We are a charity for the benefit of Bridgwater and want to add to our facilities to improve our offering for the people of Bridgwater.

“The project is designed to be sustainable but is not a profit-making enterprise. We would look to work with West Somerset Council and the CIM fund team in the future so that we can make the appropriate amendments to meet the criteria. We are flexible and want to make the project work.

“If people in Bridgwater feel this is an asset we will continue but if they do not want it we will not press ahead.”

CIM fund manager Lisa Redston said Lower Lakes had carried out consultation and identified a need for an increase in leisure facilities in the area, but had not included the results in the application.

She noted the project would 'combat negative experiences and reduce tension as a result of Hinkley Point C' and scored well against the quality of life and sustainability criteria.

However issues raised included the need for a risk assessment and for the applicant to actively seek match funding.

"Although the Parish Council has offered support for the project, it has requested a travel management plan before they offer full support," Mrs Redston said.

For schools, colleges, and local charities and groups. Facilitating recreation and learning.

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