Local councillors have approved plans to build nearly 30 new homes close to Cheddar Reservoir, raising concerns over localised flooding in the area. Bellway Homes South West is currently developing 60 homes at the Peregrine View site, located between Hellier’s Lane and Middle Moor Lane, southeast of the reservoir.
In December 2023, Coln Residential Ltd. submitted an application to construct 28 additional homes east of the Peregrine View development, on land connected to Cheddar Nurseries. Somerset Council has now given its approval, potentially allowing construction to begin before the end of the year.
The Cheddar Neighbourhood Plan had earmarked part of this site for development, and the Sedgemoor Local Plan encourages the redevelopment of brownfield sites for residential use, especially where commercial uses become unviable.
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Access to the new homes will be via Hellier’s Lane, situated between junctions linking Hythe Road and Centenary Way. Most new properties will be located near the existing Peregrine View homes, with a few positioned between Hellier’s Lane and Sharpham Road.
Of the proposed 30 homes, six will be affordable, representing 22.5% of the development—exceeding the 15% affordable housing target for new brownfield site developments in the former Sedgemoor area.
In addition to affordable housing, the project will contribute nearly £14,700 towards expanding local healthcare facilities, including Cheddar Medical Centre or the Axbridge and Wedmore Medical Centre.
Clive Panchaud, chair of Cheddar Parish Council’s planning committee, voiced strong opposition during the Somerset Council planning meeting on July 8 in Bridgwater. He raised persistent concerns regarding surface water flooding during heavy rain, citing reports from local residents about flood depths reaching 20 centimeters even before the new development.
Panchaud noted that the existing Bellway site requires continuous pump operation during bad weather, highlighting the area’s vulnerability.
Councillor Pauline Ham, representing Cheddar, also expressed worries about highway access. She pointed out poor visibility on Hellier’s Lane, narrow road conditions, a narrow bridge, lack of footways, and the considerable distance to essential amenities.
Despite these objections, the planning committee approved the development by 11 votes to 2 after an hour of discussion, allowing construction to proceed.