The Bishop's Palace in Wells could soon convert its education centre into a new ticket office and shop if plans submitted this week receive approval.

An application submitted to Somerset Council under reference 2025/0003/FUL proposes to change the use of the education room in the Stable Yard into a ticket office, shop, and entranceway. The plans also include alterations to the glazed screen on the building's north side and the creation of a new doorway on the south side, providing access to the Palace gardens.

The Palace Trust, which manages the historic site, said the move would "improve the existing welcome experience, enhancing visitor flow into the gardens and optimising the commercial activities of the Palace Trust."

The current ticket office and shop are located within the Bishop's Table café, but this temporary setup has become "unviable" according to the Trust.

A spokesperson added: "The running of these operations from the Bishop's Table is less than satisfactory. A review found the visitor reception building to cause significant harm to the reading of the Palace Forecourt and the ensemble of grade I listed structures and surroundings."

The Palace Trust also noted that Historic England had previously been supportive of their proposals and had again shown support when approached for this latest application.

The Trust stated that the plans would not only improve the visitor experience but also support the sustainability of the charity. "The expanded retail area and extra café seating will increase trading revenue; income that goes towards the sustainability of the charity and its ability to look after this unique historic site, which is of huge public benefit."

The application will now be reviewed by planning officers before a decision is made. Residents can search for reference number 2025/0003/FUL on the planning portal to view the full details and submit comments on the proposals.