The village of Oake, nestled between Taunton and Wellington, is set to have a stronger voice in local housing decisions following the approval of its Neighbourhood Plan.
Located in the former Taunton Deane area, Oake sits strategically between two major roads—the A38 connecting Taunton and Wellington, and the B3227 linking Taunton and Wiveliscombe via Milverton. Since late 2017, the parish council and residents have collaborated to develop a Neighbourhood Plan that protects and enhances the village’s distinctive character amid future housing developments.
After a local referendum held on October 23, where approximately 97% of participating residents supported the plan, Somerset Council formally adopted it on December 10. This plan now serves as a fundamental reference for planning decisions affecting Oake and its neighbouring hamlets of Heathfield, Hillcommon, and Hillfarrance.
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Although the Neighbourhood Plan does not designate specific sites for residential or commercial development, it introduces a detailed design guide ensuring that any new buildings harmonize with the village’s existing aesthetic. It also identifies key green spaces—such as the primary school’s playing fields—to be preserved from development and promotes improved walking and cycling connections both within Oake and to nearby settlements like Milverton and Norton Fitzwarren.
Councillor Sarah Wakefield, responsible for adults services, housing, and homelessness, emphasized the importance of respecting Neighbourhood Plans amid wider housing pressures. She expressed concern that plans may be overlooked when the council lacks a five-year housing land supply, causing some parishes to question the value of producing such plans.
Council officials assured that the Neighbourhood Plan would be given due consideration within the broader development framework. However, they explained that plans like Oake’s carry more influence when they allocate sufficient sites to meet local housing needs, which helps resist speculative development. As Oake’s plan currently lacks specific site allocations, its protective power against unplanned housing proposals is comparatively limited.
The approval of Oake’s Neighbourhood Plan complements existing planning policies inherited by Somerset Council following the abolition of former district councils in April 2023. It will also form part of the forthcoming Somerset Local Plan, expected to be adopted by spring 2029, with public consultations on site allocations anticipated soon.
Acknowledging evolving community needs, Councillor Wakefield highlighted the necessity for some development in small villages like Oake. She noted demographic shifts and housing demands, stating: “We can’t pretend villages are static. Residents need options for down-sizing or staying local, which means some building is essential. This plan isn’t about blocking growth—it’s about shaping what development looks like in our village.”