Plans to extend a rural Somerset cycle route have been postponed due to errors in a council planning report. Lovell Homes is currently developing Station Fields on the A39 Priest Street in Williton, set to include 350 new homes, commercial spaces, and leisure facilities. As part of their agreement with Somerset Council, the developer committed to creating nearly 1.5 km of walking and cycling links to improve connectivity to local schools and amenities.
The proposed extensions are part of the Steam Coast Trail, a car-free route connecting Williton and Watchet. Two new sections were submitted for approval in November 2025 by the Wyndham Estate, which received outline permission in 2021. These sections would link Station Fields to the adjacent Orchard Brooks development, and further east toward Watchet, enhancing safe access for pedestrians, cyclists, and mobility scooter users.
However, during the Somerset Council planning committee meeting on April 28 in Taunton, Councillor Simon Coles, chairing the meeting, announced a postponement. He cited “significant concerns” regarding inaccuracies in the officers' report, including misquoted planning policies, insufficient background information, and missing details about potential footpath diversions. Councillor Coles emphasized the decision was not a reflection on the project itself but a necessary step to ensure a comprehensive and accurate evaluation.
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The western section (‘phase one’) would run from the B3191 Five Bells near Danesfield Church of England Middle School, following a public footpath north of Monksilver Stream to Doniford Road, near St. Peter’s Church of England First School. A new crossing on Doniford Road would link to existing paths at Orchard Brooks. The eastern section (‘phase two’) would extend from Orchard Brooks along Doniford Road, connecting near the Watchet roundabout, providing vital links between Williton and Watchet, and facilitating sustainable travel options for residents of nearby developments such as Underwood Gardens.
Both routes are planned to be four meters wide, designed to accommodate cyclists and mobility scooters alike, utilizing low-impact construction methods consistent with existing segments of the Steam Coast Trail.
Councillor Coles confirmed the report will be revised and resubmitted for committee consideration at a future date. The next meeting is scheduled for May 26 in Taunton.