A petition has been launched to make sure the community has its say in Evercreech against the proposed demolition of the former Greencore factory site.

A planning application has been made for the demolition of all above-ground structures on the former Greencore site in Prestleigh Road including removal of floor slabs, foundations and hardstanding areas.

However, a petition has been set up by the Somerton and Frome Liberal Democrats against the plans, saying that the factory is an important piece of the village's heritage and it needs to be protected.

It contains some of the oldest buildings in the village including Batts Farm, various historic outbuildings and walls, as well as Kemps Silk Mill.

The site had a varied use, making silk, making ginger beer and desserts for Marks and Spencer.

Mendip district councillor, Barry O'Leary, is one of those behind the petition, and he said: "What we want is a balanced plan for the village, mixing the future with the past.

"The factory was important to the economic and social fabric of our village, and we believe it has more to give.

"Last year the site was sold off to a private firm who have made not just one but two applications to demolish the buildings, to leave a clear site.

"This is an important part of Evercreech's social industrial history, what makes our community - we have already lost much of Evercreech Junction.

"This petition will be collated to submit as evidence to support the community case that many of these older buildings should be preserved for uses in the future and as part of our living local heritage."

The petition already as dozens of signatures, and the wording of it says:

"A demand that Mendip Council and O'Brien Demolition to note that I do not agree with the proposed complete demolition of the site to include all the older buildings as they form an important part of Evercreech's heritage.

"In addition, I ask that this application must be withdrawn and a new plan published to show what will be kept on site.

"I also demand the site owner hold a local public meeting about their plans, how they view this site and how they will accurately reflect local opinions about this asset.

"This would create a better plan that allows for a development and a safeguard to our community's history from being erased, lost forever."

O'Brien Demolition have been approached for comment.

To view the petition, click on the red button below.