Squatters in Mendip House, High Street, Taunton

At least seven people have barricaded themselves inside the premises at Mendip House, in High Street.

It is believed they broke into the three-storey building by smashing a window and have since allegedly caused thousands of pounds worth of damage inside.

They have posted a message at the back of the building saying: "We live in this property, it is our home and we intend to stay here."

A person living nearby says it is "an absolute nightmare" while business owners say customers are being frightened off by the behaviour of the squatters, who include at least one woman.

"It's an absolute nightmare," said one person. "They've smashed all the windows and are refusing to leave.

"They have parties every night and there's lots of shouting out the window.

"Apparently the toilets are all blocked and the place is a total mess inside."

The owner of a business said: "I've had people coming in and then moving on when they see these squatters.

"People are afraid and feel frightened."

The rear of the occupied premises.

Another person said: "They were asking for £1,000 each to leave, which isn't going to happen."

It is understood the building belongs to South Western Property, an offshore company based in Guernsey.

There are plans to apply for a change of use permission so the buildings can be converted into flats.

However, that is currently on hold due to fears over certain developments potentially releasing more phosphate toxins onto the Somerset Levels.

A councillor said the Government has ploughed significant funds into the district to support homeless people since the pandemic started.

They added: "I understand they've caused tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage.

"They're drinking alcohol and throwing rubbish on the roof of the building.

"If this sort of thing continues, then businesses will leave and visitors won't want to come into the town."

The County Gazette approached a man who arrived at the door of the building on a scooter.

Before he was let in by a woman, he said he would give an interview later on, but failed to emerge from the building.

Two other men were also later seen being let in after arriving at the premises.

As well as saying the squatters intend to stay in the building, the note from "the occupiers" headed 'legal warning' stuck to the rear of the building says there is at least one person in the property at all time and any attempt to enter without permission is a criminal offence.

It adds: "If you attempt to enter by violence or by threatening violence we will prosecute you.

A note stuck to the rear of Mendip House.

"You may receive a sentence of up to six months' imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £5,000.

"If you want to get us out you will have to issue a claim for possession in the County Court or in the High Court."