Planned modifications to a house of multiple occupancy (HMO) at 27 Wembdon Road in Bridgwater have been postponed following significant public safety concerns. Homelessness charity Arc—formerly known as Taunton Action for the Homeless—originally received planning permission in September 2022 to convert the former Tower House B&B into an eight-bedroom HMO.
Now, Arc has requested to vary this permission by reducing staff presence during evenings and weekends, shifting from 24/7 staffing to weekday-only onsite support. Instead, the property would be monitored through live-streamed CCTV and security personnel would be deployed as needed. The charity contends that the residents will have lower support needs than initially anticipated, justifying this change.
However, the proposal has sparked intense opposition from local residents, councillors, and politicians alike, who fear the reduction in onsite staffing may compromise safety for both occupants and the surrounding community. Under the original plan, staff were to be continuously present, providing immediate support and managing any issues as they arise.
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Bridgwater resident Sophie Kemp voiced concerns at the June 10 planning committee meeting, highlighting fears about insufficient staffing and potential risks to vulnerable nearby groups, including children attending a nearby primary school, SEND center, and nursery. She also questioned Arc’s track record, referencing challenges at other properties they manage.
Local MP Sir Ashley Fox formally objected, emphasizing that the change would hinder the creation of a safe environment for residents and neighbors alike. Councillor Alistair Hendry shared personal experience managing similar facilities and expressed unease about the proposal, particularly given the proximity to schools.
Councillor Bob Filmer, who chaired the committee when initial permission was granted, stressed the importance of onsite management for swift response and oversight, questioning who would ensure CCTV systems function properly without staff present.
Other councillors recounted concerns about the property’s suitability and the impact on the community. Councillor Alan Bradford shared his emotional experience visiting one of Arc’s Taunton facilities, reinforcing his doubts about the location’s appropriateness. Councillor Brian Smedley acknowledged residents' justified concerns and recognized the challenge in balancing conditions, as the existing permission already allowed operation with full staffing.
Following a thorough hour-long debate, the committee unanimously voted to defer making a decision until Arc provides further information addressing these safety concerns. The committee is set to revisit the application in their next meeting on July 8 in Bridgwater.