HSBC has applied for permission to make upgrades to its Bridgwater branch.

The Fore Street bank could receive a new cash machine, as well as a CCTV camera, and sign if plans are approved.

HSBC is replacing ATMs at all its branches across the nation - and at the Bridgwater branch, it is proposed to remove the existing ATM located in the right-hand window, and reinstate the stonework and window to how it would have looked before the cash machine was first installed.

A new ATM would then be installed in a new spot below the left-hand window.

A spokesperson for HSBC said: "This will enable the machine to be contained in a small room internally, that will improve the security for staff. It also eliminates the noise from the machine that would otherwise permeate the Banking Hall as the existing one does."

The area of floor planned for the new ATM will be lowered to allow for disabled access, and a 'redundant' night-safe will also be removed to enable the machine to be installed in this location.

Speaking further on the plans, a spokesperson said: "Externally, the existing projecting marble faced stall riser will be cut back.

"This is to allow wheelchair users to get close enough to the machine.

"A new marble faced stall riser will be built, that will match the adjacent one below the right-hand window.

"The stonework will be carefully adjusted and re-worked to suit the required aperture.

"This amendment, along with the reinstated right-hand window stonework and window frame, will result in a more balanced elevation."

Also among the plans is the installation of a new CCTV camera to monitor the new machine, in alignment with HSBC's nationwide policy for external ATMs.

In addition, the bank hopes to erect a new non-illuminated sign spanning 720mm x 420mm above the cash machine, in place of the existing sign.

For more details on the application, search reference number 08/24/00067 on Somerset Council's online planning portal.

Public consultation on the plans is now open, and comments are welcome until Friday, June 14 - a decision could be made from the following day.