The approval of more than 30 new homes near the M5 in Somerset is a significant development, especially with the backdrop of the site where over 1,400 additional homes are planned. Brandon Jeffery submitted the application in February 2023 to construct 33 homes at Langaller Manor Farm on North End in Monkton Heathfield, near Taunton.
The location sits between the M5 and the second phase of the Monkton Heathfield urban extension. This area is where Persimmon Homes South West and Redrow Homes are awaiting planning permission for an additional 1,450 homes, along with commercial space, a new school, and other infrastructure. Somerset Council’s planning committee west supported Mr. Jeffery’s plans, and the decision on the wider Monkton Heathfield proposals is anticipated in the autumn.
The new homes will have access from a new junction on North End. The site will be linked to the existing Monkton Heathfield homes and the neighboring village of Creech St. Michael. Most of the existing farm buildings, damaged or destroyed by a fire in February 2021, will be demolished and replaced with new dwellings. However, the grade two listed farmhouse will be extended and renovated. Due to the site’s location within the River Tone catchment, the developer and the council have agreed on additional mitigation to prevent any net increase in phosphates on the Somerset Levels and Moors.
READ MORE: Stay Alert: Somerset Police Warn of Black Friday and Cyber Monday Scams
READ MORE: Council Puts Hold on Accepting Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children in Somerset Area
A portion of farmland in the Bathpool area of Taunton will be fallowed and transformed into woodland as part of the mitigation, with the cattle currently grazing there being relocated to farmland owned by Mr. Jeffery in Oakford, Devon. Councillor Norman Cavill stressed the need for improved pedestrian access through the site to complement efforts to create a “green necklace” around the various Monkton Heathfield developments.
The land between Langaller Manor Farm and the redirected A38 was initially designated for employment within the Monkton Heathfield urban extension. However, part of this land was released for housing by Taunton Deane Borough Council in January 2019 due to the delivery of fewer homes than anticipated in phase one of the urban extension. Planning officers have mentioned that approving these plans does not preclude securing pedestrian access when more detailed proposals for the new homes are presented.
The committee voted unanimously to approve the plans, emphasizing the importance of the “green necklace” as a crucial part of the regeneration work around Taunton. Pending a reserved matters application detailing the design and layout of the new homes, more progress is expected by Christmas.