MORE than 30 jobs could be created if the go-ahead if given for a farm-based tourist attraction on the outskirts of Ilminster.

Montpellier Enterprises Ltd have submitted plans to open up a Somerset Farm Park at Horton Cross Farm at Horton close to the Monks Yard facilities. The attraction will be based around countryside activities and the conservation and protection of rare breeds of farm animals.

The applicants have told South Somerset District Council that they will work closely with the company which runs the existing Cotswold Farm Park in Gloucestershire where BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson is a director.

A spokesman for the applicants, said: “The proposed Farm Park will be similar to the Cotswold Farm Park, but it will be adapted to its Somerset location.

“It will offer a total countryside experience and will involve the reuse of existing buildings, as well as the use of open agricultural land.”

Documents supporting the planning application show that the park would initially be open from March to October with a predicted 70,000 visitors a year. The project could employ 33 people – eight full-time and 25 part-time and seasonal workers.

“It will have important educational, conservation and recreation elements,” the spokesman added. “As well as providing fun and entertainment to the visitors it will ensure through interaction with animals that the public will have an improved awareness of farming and the countryside.”

A decision on the planning application will be made by the district council at a later date.