Construction on a new medical centre near the M5 in Somerset could commence as early as summer 2026, pending approval of a proposed housing development. North Petherton has seen substantial residential growth recently, with over 500 homes planned at the adjacent Bridgwater Gateway site and more than 360 homes proposed near the town’s rugby club.
West of England Developments (Taunton) Ltd. unveiled plans in late 2023 for a new housing estate at the northern end of A38 Taunton Road, which will incorporate a new GP surgery to replace the current facility on Church Walk. After close collaboration with Symphony Healthcare Services and NHS Somerset Integrated Care Board, the developer secured a formal commitment in February ensuring the new surgery would be delivered if planning permission is granted.
This new estate, located east of the A38 between Park Lane and Parkers Field—opposite the recently developed Carrots Farm homes by Summerfield Developments—will include 64 homes, ranging from one-bedroom flats to four-bedroom houses. Thirty percent of these, approximately 19 properties, will be designated as affordable housing.
READ MORE: Arthur Green Impresses in Bath Rugby’s Narrow Loss to Gloucester with Impactful Cameo
READ MORE: Live: Lane Closure on M5 in Somerset Following Crash
The upcoming medical centre has been expanded following discussions with NHS Somerset and will be situated near the Taunton Road access point with its own dedicated parking. Additionally, a separate 30-space car park will be built on the site’s eastern side to serve a new scout hut and junior cricket pitch, which are part of the development plan.
Originally, the proposal included a 66-bed care home; however, after consultations with council planners and market evaluation, this element was removed to prioritize additional housing. The site will also benefit from pedestrian and cycling routes that connect it to Park Lane, Taunton Road, and the town’s football club. Over 100 new trees will be planted across the development to enhance its natural appeal.
A spokesperson for West of England Developments emphasized that the plans reflect over two years of consultation with local groups, the community, planning authorities, and the NHS to create a development tailored specifically to North Petherton’s needs. “This is not a generic housing project but a community-focused initiative offering much-needed homes alongside vital amenities like a medical centre, play areas, and improved footpaths,” the spokesperson said.
The proposed development will see homes built on about half the site, with an average density of 20 dwellings per hectare. The company has prior experience developing local housing, including the Batts Meadow site on Newton Road in North Petherton and the Coronation Way estate in Creech St Michael, near Taunton.
The current surgery was identified in 2020 by Somerset health officials as one of 14 GP practices requiring expansion or relocation due to local population growth. Temporary capacity was increased by installing two Portakabins—one during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, and another in early 2024. Local council approval in July 2024 permits these Portakabins to remain until July 2029, ensuring sufficient service capacity until the new centre is operational.
Somerset Council’s planning committee north is slated to decide on the Taunton Road housing and medical centre proposals by March 2026, potentially paving the way for construction to start shortly afterward.