Over 50 new homes have been given the green light for construction in Taunton’s largest housing development, as local councillors have unanimously approved the expansion of Orchard Grove. The development, formerly known as the Comeytrowe urban extension, is a joint effort by multiple developers and is set to include 2,000 homes, a primary school, commercial spaces, a care facility, and a ‘park and bus’ area, situated between the A38 Wellington Road and Honiton Road.
Vistry, one of the developers, presented plans to build 52 homes in the ‘western neighbourhood’ in December 2022. Delays resulting from an ongoing phosphates crisis had previously stalled the decision-making process. However, Somerset Council’s planning committee west has now granted unanimous approval, paving the way for the commencement of construction within the coming months.
The new development area is located north of Egremont Road, with connections to Comeytrowe Lane via a bus gate. Notably, half of the 52 planned homes will be affordable, with 16 earmarked for social rent and ten for shared ownership. Furthermore, an existing stable block within the Comeytrowe Manor grounds is set to be transformed into a new residential property, adding to the total of 53 new homes for this section of the Orchard Grove site.
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Moreover, the Mill Pool green space, a forthcoming public area, is undergoing redesign, with adjustments to one of the planned ponds and the creation of a pedestrian and cycling link to Lipe Hill Lane. Despite some local concerns expressed during the committee’s meeting, all three development proposals were ultimately approved.
The expansion has overcome challenges related to contamination from the previous industrial estate on the site. The principal planning officer noted significant improvements in pollution control compared to the estate’s operational days, emphasizing the enhanced environmental position of the ongoing development.
The project’s progression faced hindrances due to the ongoing phosphates crisis, requiring developers to implement measures to prevent a net increase in phosphates in the surrounding area. However, with the recent approval of additional homes and the acquisition of phosphate credits, the Orchard Grove site is set to advance, supported by ongoing efforts to mitigate environmental impacts.
Councillor Habib Farbahi, representing the Comeytrowe and Trull division, stressed the importance of enforcing the bus gate regulation to manage traffic flow effectively.
Following thorough deliberation, all three development plans received unanimous approval from the committee in just over an hour.