Plans to construct 116 new homes on the western edge of Wells, Somerset’s smallest city, have ignited debate due to the reportedly hazardous road conditions in the area. The proposed site, located off the B3139 Wookey Road near the Wells Touring Park, has raised alarms among local residents who describe the road as “extremely dangerous.”
Gleeson Land Ltd., having secured outline planning permission on appeal in August 2024 for 50 homes on a nearby site, has now submitted detailed proposals for this larger development. The 116 homes would include a mix of one-bedroom flats to four-bedroom houses, with 40% designated as affordable housing (46 properties). Access to the development would be off Wookey Road, and the plan also includes enhancements such as a children’s play area, public open spaces, and improved pedestrian and cycling connections.
Despite the development’s promises of sustainable, high-quality housing and efforts to preserve existing trees and hedgerows, residents have voiced significant concerns. Jane Taylor, a local resident, highlighted the dangers of the road, noting its 60mph speed limit paired with poor pedestrian infrastructure and low visibility, which has already resulted in multiple near-misses. Other community members, like James Laing, emphasized environmental risks, referencing previous flooding blamed on nearby developments impacting the River Axe valley. Michael Taylor warned of the strain on local infrastructure, including schools, healthcare, and utilities, as well as the loss of valuable natural habitats.
READ MORE: Driver Arrested Following Serious M5 Crash Injuring Elderly Woman
READ MORE: Somerset Council to Revamp Garden Waste Collection for 53,000 Subscribers
The site was not previously designated for housing in Mendip’s Local Plan but is being reconsidered due to recent changes in surrounding developments. Somerset Council has already approved 47 homes nearby on Elm Close and is reviewing additional proposals for 100 homes east of the site, as well as a cemetery extension.
The council’s planning committee east is expected to review the application publicly by spring 2026, given its size and impact. This development raises a critical discussion on balancing the urgent need for housing with road safety, environmental sustainability, and community welfare in Wells and its surrounding areas.