Residents of Keynsham are voicing strong opposition to proposed plans that could see thousands of new homes built around their town. As Bath and North East Somerset Council consults on its forthcoming Local Plan—which sets out development priorities through 2043—the suggestion to allocate extensive land parcels near Keynsham has sparked concern among locals about the impact on the town’s character.
The draft plan aims to fulfill a housing target of 27,000 homes over two decades, with multiple large sites identified as potential development areas. Among these are North Keynsham and Hicks Gate, two council-backed locations that have received cautious community support. However, residents have raised alarms about other proposed sites surrounding the town, fearing that unchecked expansion could disrupt the balance of their cherished community.
John James, who launched a petition on Change.org on October 22, has gathered over 200 signatures calling on the council to reconsider the allocations. He emphasized that while some housing growth is necessary, Keynsham has already absorbed significant development recently. The petition supports development at North Keynsham and Hicks Gate but opposes other suggested locations within the town’s vicinity.
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Bath and North East Somerset Council acknowledges the challenges each site presents. Matt McCabe, cabinet member for built environment, housing, and sustainable development, highlighted that the council’s strategy focuses on growth along the A4 corridor between Bristol and Bath and in the Somer Valley, where planned infrastructure investments can support new housing sustainably.
Key proposed development areas include:
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Hicks Gate: Positioned west of the Hicks Gate Roundabout, this site could integrate with Bristol City’s development plans. It aims to avoid merging Keynsham with Bristol by maintaining a green buffer, with public transport links facilitating access to Bath and Bristol while relying on Keynsham’s town center for daily amenities.
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North Keynsham: The largest council-backed site, this development would span the area between the railway line and the River Avon, potentially impacting Avon Valley Country Park (which would be relocated slightly). Plans envision student housing, a primary school, leisure facilities, and enhanced riverfront access for moorings and water-based activities.
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East of Globe Roundabout: A sensitive site near Bath, located between Twerton, Pennyquick, and the A4. This land forms part of the green space contributing to Bath’s World Heritage Site status. The council acknowledges that development here would cause significant harm but includes it in the consultation to explore potential public benefits that might outweigh the impact. The site could also host the Newbridge Park & Ride relocation to free up its current spot for redevelopment.
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North of Midsomer Norton: The only council site outside the A4 corridor, situated on a plateau north of Midsomer Norton. It includes provisions to preserve the town’s green surroundings by maintaining a gap of fields. Access improvements would be essential due to current narrow roads.
Beyond council proposals, other developers have suggested additional sites around Keynsham and surrounding areas such as Radstock, Saltford, and Whitchurch. The full range of potential development locations presents a vast scope for new housing that has divided community opinion.
It’s important to note that designation in the Local Plan does not guarantee development; all projects require planning permission. The Local Plan gives the council greater direction over development locations and stronger grounds to approve or refuse proposals, particularly important before its adoption.
The consultation on the Local Plan options is open until November 14. Bath and North East Somerset Council is hosting local events using a retro ice cream van to engage residents and gather feedback.