A proposed housing development in Castle Cary faces potential halt as local opposition mounts through a crowdfunded judicial review campaign.
The Yarlington Housing Association, now merged into Abri, secured permission in April 2019 to build 27 affordable homes on the Foxes Run site, located off Bridgewater Buildings on the town’s south-western edge. After initial planning permission expired, Abri sought to modify conditions in August 2024 to proceed with construction, receiving approval from the Planning Inspectorate.
However, the development has been met with resistance from residents and local historian groups who claim the site harbors an unexploded bomb dropped by the Luftwaffe during the 1942 Castle Cary air raid. Abri denies the presence of any unexploded ordnance.
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Local councillor Henry Hobhouse, one of two Liberal Democrats representing Castle Cary, has launched a GoFundMe campaign aiming to raise £50,000 by February 17 to fund a judicial review challenging the inspector’s decision. As of February 9, approximately £7,250 has been pledged.
Hobhouse argues that the planning inspector’s report contains critical inaccuracies, particularly concerning traffic assessments on Mill Lane, a narrow residential street providing access to Foxes Run. He raises concerns over an influx of around 3,200 tonnes of building materials, necessitating numerous heavy goods vehicle trips that threaten resident safety and peace.
The historical context of the site deepens concerns. On September 3, 1942, the Luftwaffe attacked Castle Cary, damaging the railway station and causing fatalities. Local records indicate five bombs fell near South Cary Lane, one reportedly landing on the Foxes Run site but left undetonated due to challenging terrain.
Hobhouse stresses the unexploded bomb presents significant safety risks that were allegedly overlooked in the planning process. He calls on the community to support the campaign to ensure that planning decisions prioritize safety and fairness.
If the crowdfunding target is met, the High Court will decide whether the judicial review proceeds to a one-day hearing, anticipated before the end of the year, with an outcome expected in early 2026. The funds will cover legal fees and barrister costs.
Residents concerned about the development and planning process are encouraged to contribute to the campaign to protect their community’s well-being.