A MULTI-MILLION pound ‘House of Somerset’ to showcase all that is best in the county is planned to be built close to the Chelston roundabout near Wellington.

The plans have been hailed as a chance to bring thousands of visitors into Somerset and boost the local economy.

The privately funded project – planned for a field which a group of travellers took over a few years ago – could bring employment to the area and promote local businesses and products

The promoters will give a presentation to Wellington Town Council and other interested parties at a special informal meeting in the Exam Room at Wellington School on Tuesday, November 6, at 6pm. The meeting is open to members of the public.

Chelston was chosen for its proximity to the M5 despite interest from a number of other towns and is another boost for the business park which is attracting new companies all the time.

Andrew Govier, county councillor for Wellington, said: “This is really exciting news for the town. Wellington will now be the gateway to Somerset for visitors from all over the country and overseas.

“I am really impressed at the detailed work that has gone into planning this project.

“I have met two of the scheme’s promoters and they have a real passion to see Somerset’s profile raised to a far higher level.

“The county has a proud history and we continue to produce world class products but we seem to lose out in the visitor stakes to Devon and Cornwall.”

He added: “This is positive news against the current backdrop of closures and loss of services. I think this will provide a significant boost to Wellington and Somerset’s economy.

“I hope the local councils and residents will get behind this project and make it a real success.

“This is a once in a generation opportunity to bring thousands of visitors into the county and boost the local economy.

“I hope people will attend the upcoming meeting to find out more.”