A new development of 11 affordable homes will soon be built in the small village of Spaxton, near Bridgwater, after receiving unanimous approval from local councillors.
The joint proposal, submitted by Aster Housing and the Spaxton Community Land Trust in June 2025, plans to construct homes on Peartwater Road, north of the village allotments. Although Somerset Council’s planning officers initially recommended rejecting the plans, the planning committee north voted decisively to overrule that advice.
The homes will be accessible via a new junction on Peartwater Road at the village’s western edge, positioned between Bridgwater and the scenic Quantock Hills national landscape. In addition, pedestrian access will link residents safely to the village’s High Street through an allotment track.
As part of the development, land north of the homes will be converted into a wildflower meadow, enhancing the green buffer around Spaxton and contributing to the 10% biodiversity net gain required by national policy.
The project includes a range of housing types—from one-bedroom flats to three-bedroom houses—offered at social rent to individuals with local ties. Currently, 26 applicants on the Homefinder Somerset housing register have expressed interest in living in Spaxton.
Despite some local concerns about road congestion, safety, and the homes' layout differing from the rural character, the plans found strong support. Resident Christopher Morton voiced worries about the design and location, emphasizing potential traffic and parking problems on narrow country lanes.
Conversely, Anthony Betty, representing Bridgwater MP Sir Ashley Fox, highlighted the urgent need for affordable housing in Spaxton, which has seen none built in the last 50 years. He praised the scheme as “shovel-ready” and essential for enabling local workers and lifelong residents to remain in the village.
Support also came from CPRE Somerset, whose trustee Fletcher Robinson endorsed the design as sympathetic to the village’s character. He pointed to historic courtyard developments in Spaxton as comparable examples, noting the scheme’s community-centered approach prioritizes safety and quality rural living. Robinson described the project as setting a high standard for future rural housing and praised the widespread community backing.
Councillors Matt Martin and Alan Bradford echoed positive sentiments, with Martin stating the development meets a clear community need and Bradford noting overwhelming local support, claiming 97% of Spaxton residents favor the plan.
Following nearly two hours of discussion, the planning committee unanimously approved the development, allowing construction to proceed later this year.