The possibility of constructing hundreds of homes on the South Stoke plateau near Bath has become a subject of contention and uncertainty. Bath and North East Somerset Council’s rejection of plans for 290 homes led to an appeal from the Hignett Family Trust, which claimed that the council’s decision-making process was “chaotic” and “unreasonable.” As a result, a ten-day inquiry is set to take place in January to review the matter.
The Hignett Family Trust sees the proposed homes, 40% of which would be affordable housing, as a beneficial addition to Bath. However, local residents expressed concerns about potential traffic issues, dubbing the situation “carmageddon.” While the council’s planning officers recommended the approval of the development, the plans faced multiple challenges during committee meetings, including public protests and significant public involvement.
Following lengthy discussions, the council rejected the plans 7-1, prompting the Hignett Family Trust to question the council’s decision-making process and threaten to pursue a substantial award of costs. The dispute also resulted in the resignation of the planning committee’s chair, raising further questions about the council’s approach.
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The upcoming inquiry, scheduled to commence on January 28, 2025, will provide a platform for the planning inspectorate to thoroughly assess the situation and make a decision. The South of Bath Alliance, which opposed the proposed development, anticipated this turn of events and continues to advocate for its stance despite the council’s refusal.
With over 1,200 objections and minimal support, the proposed homes have sparked significant community input and opposition. The upcoming inquiry will play a pivotal role in determining the fate of the development and addressing the various grounds on which the plans were initially rejected.