A proposal to build 200 new homes on the outskirts of Nailsea has sparked significant local concern, with many residents saying the town is already overwhelmed by recent housing developments. North Somerset Council’s planning committee is set to vote on the application this Wednesday.
The proposed site, an active farm spanning 8.41 hectares off Netherton Lane, lies opposite the existing Netherton Grange development by Taylor Wimpey. Developer St Mowden Homes seeks outline planning permission to demolish current farm buildings and secure approval for the number of homes planned, with detailed designs and development plans to follow.
While planning officers recommend approving the scheme, opposition is nearly unanimous among the community. To date, the council has received 85 objections and only a single letter of support. One key concern is that Nailsea is already burdened by multiple developments—including Netherton Grange, Parish Brook, Elm Grove, and others off The Perrings and Trendlewood Way—that together will add thousands of new residents to the town.
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Critics argue that the existing infrastructure is insufficient to handle further housing increases, warning that continued expansion could strain local resources and services.
The application states the development will be a “lasting sustainable development which reflects the local character,” featuring high-quality homes built efficiently. Importantly, 30% of the new houses are designated as affordable housing.
Both Nailsea and neighboring Backwell, situated on the edge of the green belt, have become hotspots for recent housing projects. This upcoming vote follows approvals for 150 homes on Nailsea’s northwest edge and a major 515-home project in Backwell, despite concerns about potential flooding risks.
The council faces pressure to meet ambitious government housing targets, which require building 23,895 new homes by 2040—approximately 1,593 annually—to address regional demand.
The planning committee will convene on Wednesday, August 20, at 2:30 pm in the New Council Chamber at Weston-super-Mare Town Hall to decide the fate of the development.