COUNCILLORS have been urged to take action against a bid from Minehead's open-air market to remain at a new site.

The twice-weekly market sparked controversy among traders when it moved to Vulcan Road near Butlins from its original site next to Minehead railway station, bypassing trade from the town.

The present market site has been unauthorised since the expiration of permitted development rights in July under which it could be used for 14 days in a year.

West Somerset District Council look set to refuse the application to make the Vulcan Road site a permanent fixture today (Thursday).

Planning officer Nigel Furze said in a report to the monthly planning committee meeting that the land on which the site lay was outside of the limit of development and that the use of the site as a market was contrary to one of the principles of being in the countryside.

He added: "The submission of this planning application has been made in an attempt to regularise the use of this site as a market. It will however be noted that in addition to determining this application, that there is a recommendation that the council should instigate enforcement action against this unauthorised use."

There have been two letters of objection to the proposal with fears that the market causing dangerous hold ups and advertising around the town is affecting businesses.

Mr Furze said: "It is strongly recommended that this planning application be refused."

To find out the outcome of the planning committee meeting watch the website.