Plans for a large new housing development on the green outskirts of Midsomer Norton have sparked community concerns, especially given the availability of significant brownfield sites within the town.
Developer Taylor Wimpey has submitted an application to Bath and North East Somerset Council proposing 130 homes on greenfield land along Chilcompton Road, at the southern edge of Midsomer Norton. The company describes the project as “a logical and sustainable extension to the existing settlement,” promising that 30% of the homes would be affordable and that generous open spaces would be included in the development. Notably, 17 of the homes would fall under the Somerset Council jurisdiction, as the council boundary cuts through the site.
However, local residents and councillors have questioned why developments continue to encroach on greenfield land when brownfield sites remain undeveloped. Jamie Bracey, who lodged an objection against the plans, highlighted vacant and deteriorating brownfield locations such as the Welton Bag and Radco sites. “These brownfield sites should be prioritised for development before any greenfield land is lost,” he argued.
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The old factory buildings at Welton, Bibby and Baron, located on Station Road, have stood derelict for years and have been described by locals as a “festering boil” on the town. Despite clear demand and interest, efforts to redevelop this prominent brownfield site have been unsuccessful, while permissions for greenfield building continue to be granted.
Catherine Gamester, a long-time resident of nearly 60 years, expressed frustration with the ongoing expansion of the town. “Midsomer Norton has grown so much we are almost merged with Radstock and Westfield. To now develop on the opposite end of the town is ludicrous,” she said. “There is no accompanying infrastructure growth — schools, doctors, and dentists are all at capacity, and waiting times are unacceptable.”
Concerns also extend to environmental and safety issues. Shaun Hughes, a Midsomer Norton North councillor, warned about potential traffic risks from increased vehicles on Chilcompton Road. He added that the River Somerset, which runs across part of the proposed site, is prone to winter flooding. Furthermore, a section of the development falls within a consultation zone affected by odour emissions from the nearby Chilcompton Sewage Treatment Works.
With these issues in mind, residents are urging the council to reconsider the approval of this housing development and focus instead on regenerating the town’s brownfield sites to help protect greenfield areas and better support community needs.