businesses and councillors have called on Somerset West and Taunton Council (SWT) to take action to get the former Teare’s building in South Street, Wellington, tidied up and hopefully turned back into a shop.

The property is between two of Wellington’s best presented shops in Joseph Welch Jewellers and the Sporting Duchess, and their appearance is in marked contrast to its neighbours.

Local councillor Andrew Govier said: “I have been contacted by a number of businesses and local residents about the terrible state of Teares. As well as being an eyesore, its state of disrepair is causing damage to adjacent properties and is a health and safety concern.

“The main window was broken a number of months ago and there was a real danger that the glass could have fallen out onto a passer-by. Fortunately, the council acted very quickly when I contacted them and they have put in place some temporary safety measures, but the whole building looks terrible, and it is a real blot on the town centre.”

Cllr Govier has contacted SWT and has received a positive reply with the council trying to contact the owners to get them to carry out the repairs.

Cllr Govier added “We all understand that, unfortunately, businesses close and premises are empty for a period of time, but this has gone on for far too long. The shop is in a prime location and could be a real asset for the town.

“I am delighted that SWT council have responded so promptly and positively to my request. I really hope that something can be done to, in the first instance, tidying up the building and then it can be brought back into use.”