Construction is set to begin promptly on 361 “smart-looking” houses near the M5 motorway in Bridgwater, following the approval of revised planning applications.
Initially granted planning permission in February 2024 by BoKlok Housing Ltd., the project is located within the Bridgwater Gateway site, north of the A38 Taunton Road, in the North Petherton parish. After selling the land to Keepmoat Homes, the developer collaborated with housing association LiveWest to submit amended plans in July 2025 for the same number of houses.
Somerset Council’s planning committee gave unanimous approval to these updated proposals, praising the shift toward a more “traditional” architectural style. Keepmoat Homes, headquartered in Doncaster, will oversee development in the central and eastern parts of the site alongside LiveWest, while Vistry Partnerships will build the remaining 150 homes on the western edge.
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The development will be positioned north of existing commercial units on Carnival Way, near the Lidl supermarket as well as recently completed Domino’s Pizza and Greggs outlets. Access will be available via both Carnival Way and Compass Avenue, linked by a new central spine road traversing the site.
Compared to BoKlok’s original designs, Keepmoat’s plans introduce several significant changes. Notably, affordable housing provision has increased from 36 to 51 homes, thanks to LiveWest’s involvement. Of these, 75% will be offered at social rent and 25% through shared ownership.
David Summerhill, LiveWest’s new business head for the southwest region, addressed the committee, stating: “We are keen to deliver much-needed affordable and open market homes in the town. The proposal provides a diverse mix of housing sizes, tenures, and designs to meet a broad range of needs—including first-time buyers, families, and those looking to downsize. We are ready to move forward promptly following this approval.”
The development also includes a financial contribution exceeding £212,000 to support local GP surgeries, potentially benefiting Somerset Bridge Medical Centre or North Petherton Surgery, the latter of which might be redeveloped as part of a separate 64-home scheme.
Councillor Bob Filmer (Conservative, Brent) welcomed the departure from the original modular BoKlok design, which he described as “interesting” but ultimately unbuilt. He added, “The traditional style is more in keeping with the area. Also, it’s encouraging to see more two- and three-bedroom homes planned, addressing a known shortage in the community.”
Keepmoat Homes brings local experience, having previously developed 159 homes at the Parade development on Bristol Road in Bridgwater and 58 homes at Steart Farm in Cheddar.
Councillor Alan Bradford (Conservative, North Petherton) praised the updated designs and urged for swift construction. “The old BoKlok homes looked awful. I’m glad these smarter houses of varied sizes are coming forward. It’s a shame it’s taken so long—we need faster progress,” he said.
After approximately 45 minutes of discussion, the committee unanimously approved the plans. Construction is expected to begin before the end of the year.