Failand, a distinctive village in North Somerset known for its near-perfect triangular layout, may soon see this unique shape altered by a large new housing development. Currently home to roughly 350 residences, Failand’s homes are neatly confined within the triangle formed by Clevedon Road, Weston Road, and Flax Bourton Road. A recent planning application proposes adding up to 200 new homes on land west of Flax Bourton Road that lies just outside this traditional boundary.
Hill Residential, the developer behind the plans submitted to North Somerset Council, describes the project as an opportunity to create a connected, inclusive neighborhood that reinforces the village’s community spirit. The proposed homes would be relatively low-density, consisting mainly of two-storey terraces and detached or semi-detached houses featuring simple, traditional designs. Plans also call for street trees along all roads to maintain a sense of greenery.
Historically, the heart of Failand originated as the Sixty Acre Plantation, with initial postwar development appearing on the village’s edges and interior expansion beginning in the 1970s. Until now, growth has respected the village’s iconic triangular form, which has been preserved in part due to surrounding green belt protections. However, with North Somerset targeting nearly 24,000 new homes over the next 15 years, some green belt land is being reconsidered for development. While this particular site remains officially designated as green belt, the developers argue it qualifies as “grey belt” land—a category introduced during earlier planning reforms describing lower-quality greenbelt that could be suitable for housing.
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Locals have voiced strong objections to the proposal. One resident called the grey belt classification “disingenuous,” emphasizing Failand’s rural character and tight-knit community. They warned that large-scale development and its accompanying commercial impacts would permanently alter the village’s identity and peaceful way of life. Environmental concerns have also been raised, noting the land is a habitat for wildlife such as deer, badgers, bats, and foxes who depend on the existing trees, hedgerows, and wildflowers.
To date, nine formal objections have been submitted by residents worried about the potential loss of community character and biodiversity. The debate highlights the challenge of balancing housing needs with preserving the unique qualities that make villages like Failand special.