A community campaign has been launched to halt the construction of 27 new homes on the Foxes Run site in Castle Cary by funding a judicial review.
The Yarlington Housing Association originally received planning permission on appeal in April 2019 to build on land off Bridgewater Buildings, located on the southwestern edge of Castle Cary. Following a merger, Abri took over the project in late 2020 and has faced opposition from local residents and historians alike.
Concerns center on claims that the site contains an unexploded World War II bomb dropped by the Luftwaffe in 1942—an assertion that Abri strongly denies. Despite the expiration of initial planning permission, work to clear the site allegedly began in April 2022, prompting local councillor Henry Hobhouse to seek a halt to the development.
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In August 2024, Abri applied to amend several planning conditions to continue the project, with the Planning Inspectorate subsequently approving the changes. In response, Councillor Hobhouse launched a GoFundMe campaign aiming to raise £50,000 by February 17 to fund a judicial review challenging this decision.
The development site, situated between Bridgewater Buildings and Remalard Court, is accessible only via Bridgewater Buildings. Abri has emphasized that this will be a “100 per cent affordable housing scheme for local households,” intended to contribute meaningfully to Castle Cary’s housing supply.
However, Mr. Hobhouse criticizes the planning inspector’s decision, particularly pointing out inaccuracies related to traffic assessments. He notes that waste lorries have rarely operated on nearby Mill Lane, contradicting the report’s claims. The project is expected to involve around 3,200 tonnes of building materials, resulting in numerous heavy goods vehicle movements. This increase, he argues, will disrupt residents’ daily lives and safety in surrounding areas such as Brookfields and Mill Lane.
The historical context adds another layer of complexity. Castle Cary suffered Luftwaffe bombing on September 3, 1942, which caused significant damage to the railway station and surrounding infrastructure, including casualties. Local historical records indicate that five bombs were dropped near South Cary Lane, one of which reportedly remains unexploded on the Foxes Run site due to challenging marshy terrain.
Councillor Hobhouse stresses, “The site is known to contain a Second World War bomb, posing a risk that cannot be overlooked.” He urges residents to support the judicial review to ensure that the risk is properly addressed and that planning decisions prioritize community safety.
As of February 5, the crowdfunding effort had raised £4,445, about nine percent of its goal. If the full amount is secured, the High Court will decide whether to proceed with a one-day hearing, anticipated to occur before the end of the year with results expected in early 2026.
Residents and supporters are encouraged to contribute to the GoFundMe campaign to help safeguard the community and ensure transparent and safe development practices.