A planning application has been lodged to demolish an old outbuilding at Sherston House and replace it with a striking new pool house and ancillary accommodation.

The single‑storey structure, formerly used as a skittle alley, sits at the rear of the Grade II‑listed Sherston House in a residential part of the Wells Conservation Area. Architects say it is of limited historic value and its removal would improve the setting of the historic property.

Under the proposals, the existing outbuilding would be replaced with a carefully designed building featuring a swimming pool, gym, changing facilities, garden room and a first‑floor office. The replacement would remain part of the main house and would not be a separate dwelling.

Designs submitted on behalf of the applicant, Mrs Zoe Costelloe, underline that the new structure will respect the city's heritage. It would use traditional materials including natural stone, render, timber and slate, and retain an elongated footprint similar to the old building to maintain the established pattern of development.

Planners were also told that careful attention has been paid to scale and roof form to ensure the new building sits comfortably within the site without dominating the listed house or neighbouring properties. Additional indigenous planting is proposed to increase biodiversity and soften views of the new build.

The application documents state that the existing outbuilding does not contribute positively to the conservation area and that its replacement would preserve and enhance the character and historic setting in line with national and local policy.

Somerset Council will now consider the plans before a decision is made.

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