The much-anticipated development of over 1,400 homes as part of phase two of the Monkton Heathfield urban extension in Taunton has been postponed until spring 2026. The delay stems from ongoing highways complications and concerns over the project’s financial viability.
Jointly proposed by Persimmon Homes South West and Redrow Homes in December 2021, the scheme aims to deliver 1,450 new homes on Taunton’s north-eastern outskirts. The development also includes employment land, a new through school combining primary and secondary education, a district centre with local shops, a mobility hub, and an eastern relief road connecting to the A38.
A decision on the plans has been repeatedly deferred since September 2022, during which significant revisions to the masterplan were negotiated between the developers and Taunton Deane Borough Council’s planning officers.
READ MORE: Doggy Heaven Arrives: New Soft Play Centre Opens for Dogs in Somerset
READ MORE: Busy A-road Reopens Following Rush-Hour Crash Near Tourist Attraction
Simon Fox, the council’s major projects planning officer, updated the Planning Committee West on November 25. Although hopeful for a spring 2025 decision at an earlier point, Fox acknowledged that extensive discussions around the complex highways package and financial viability have prolonged the process. He assured the committee that progress is being made in good faith and expects the application to be presented by spring 2026.
Phase one of the Monkton Heathfield extension has progressed substantially, including the construction of the western relief road connecting new homes to the A3259. However, the employment land near the A38 and M5 remains underdeveloped, with some of it earmarked for housing since a council decision in 2019.
Despite some minor changes to the proposed layout since September 2024, negotiations have largely focused on whether the developers can meet the council’s requirements for substantial infrastructure and planning obligations. The committee unanimously agreed to defer the decision until spring 2026, allowing more time to resolve outstanding issues.
This delay means residents and stakeholders will have to wait longer before final approval is granted for this significant expansion intended to accommodate Taunton’s growing housing and community needs.