Plans to construct a cul-de-sac within the garden of a bungalow in Saltford have been approved following a reduction in the number of houses proposed. Originally, the developer aimed to demolish 22 The Tynings and build five bungalows on its expansive rear garden. However, this plan was unanimously rejected by Bath and North East Somerset Council’s planning committee in January due to concerns over overdevelopment.
The revised proposal, which reduces the number of new bungalows from five to four, narrowly secured planning permission with a 5-4 vote. Town planner Morgan Jones, representing the applicant, emphasized that the updated plans address previous concerns raised by councillors.
Despite opposition from neighboring residents, who argued that insufficient changes had been made, several councillors acknowledged the improvements. Saltford local councillor Duncan Hounsell noted that fewer dwellings enhanced the potential for biodiversity net gain on the site.
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Committee member Fiona Gourley highlighted the benefits of the development’s focus on bungalows, describing them as smaller, more affordable homes suited for older residents, and regarded the proposal as an efficient use of available space amid growing housing needs.
However, some dissenting voices remained. Councillor Paul Crossley criticized the plan as still amounting to overdevelopment, expressing concern that it represents an overzealous response to government housing directives.
Ultimately, the planning committee narrowly approved the project, signaling a compromise between development pressures and community concerns.