Residents of Congresbury are being invited to share their views on new housing proposals for Pineapple Farm, a site at the center of local controversy. Allison Homes South West has released detailed plans for a development that would provide 70 high-quality, family-focused homes, including 30% affordable housing.
The developer encourages locals to attend a drop-in session on September 10, 2025, at The Old School Rooms, Station Road, where they can meet the project team and give feedback ahead of a formal Reserved Matters planning submission to North Somerset Council. Proposals are also available to view online at www.pineapplefarmcongresbury.co.uk, with feedback accepted until September 15, 2025.
The plans aim to balance new housing with environmental enhancements, including transforming land adjacent to Congresbury Millennium Green into a biodiverse meadow, establishing green corridors, and improving habitats for local wildlife like bats. Allison Homes emphasizes the creation of new public open spaces and intends to enrich the site’s ecology with native plantings and hedgerow improvements.
READ MORE: New Somerset 2,000-Home Development Receives Significant Government Support
READ MORE: Historic Shillingstone Station Set for Revival as Operational Railway and Museum
However, the development has divided opinion among residents. Many were disheartened when a planning inspector overturned North Somerset Council’s earlier refusal of permission, originally sought by a previous developer. Campaigners like Andrew Green voiced concerns about the impact on the village’s landscape, traffic, and quiet character.
The planning inspector granted permission with 26 conditions to mitigate potential problems including flooding, traffic flow, and the impact on neighbors. Mary Short of the Congresbury Residents Action Group expressed disappointment but noted the stringent conditions might help hold the developers accountable.
Outline planning consent was granted in November 2024, authorizing access, building heights, and density. Allison Homes refined these parameters, focusing on sustainability and designs sympathetic to the village’s character. The developer has pledged £480,000 towards community infrastructure, including transport improvements, school services, a new pedestrian crossing on Brinsea Road, a children’s play area, and enhanced walking routes to encourage active travel.
Glyn Mabey, Managing Director of Allison Homes South West, stressed the importance of local feedback in shaping the final development. “This consultation is a chance for residents to influence design and amenities so Pineapple Farm can positively contribute to Congresbury’s future,” he said.