Significant discussions have taken place between Somerset Council and the central government regarding the delivery of essential infrastructure at Taunton’s largest development site, Orchard Grove. Situated between the A38 Wellington Road and Honiton Road, this project is set to include 2,000 homes along with commercial spaces, a care home, a primary school, and a ‘park and bus’ facility—two of which are already operational.
Local MP Gideon Amos has been advocating alongside Somerset Council for government funding to support further critical infrastructure such as a health hub, a secondary school, and the completion of Egremont Road, which will eventually traverse the site from west to east.
Housing minister Matthew Pennycook, during a recent visit with Homes England representatives, suggested Orchard Grove could serve as a model for government housing ambitions, advocating for the funding of new facilities within the development. The dialogue also included Councillor Habib Farbahi, whose division covers Orchard Grove, Councillor Mike Rigby, responsible for economic development and planning, and senior council planners.
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The push for a secondary school and health hub comes amid council admissions that a new secondary school might only be delivered by 2031, leaving current schools oversubscribed. Mr. Amos emphasized the urgency: “Taunton urgently requires additional secondary school places and better NHS provision to keep up with housing growth.” He stressed that infrastructure must accompany any new housing development to serve the community adequately.
The council’s planning committee recently approved plans for 209 homes within Orchard Grove. However, it was revealed that shops and a community centre will not be established until at least 1,000 homes are built.
Mr. Amos reported progress from the meeting with the minister, noting plans to develop a business case for a new community health centre. While a secondary school is a longer-term goal due to funding complexities, the minister agreed to involve the Department for Education in discussions. Importantly, Orchard Grove may become a “case study” demonstrating how housing developments can better integrate schools, health services, and infrastructure.
Despite Orchard Grove being the only site in the Southwest receiving the government’s new homes accelerator fund, details remain sparse six months after the funding’s September 2025 confirmation.
Councillor Farbahi highlighted the collaboration as a positive example of local government working with ministers and agencies. He stated, “Rapid growth in Taunton demands that schools, healthcare, and services expand accordingly. This partnership approach aims to ensure residents receive the infrastructure they need.”
The development’s progress has been hindered by the ongoing phosphate crisis, requiring additional environmental mitigation to protect the Somerset Levels and Moors. In response, the council expedited approval for the 209 homes to move construction forward before new mitigation regulations take effect later this year.
Councillor Rigby underscored the challenge: “Balancing infrastructure with housing growth is crucial. This meeting reflects a genuine government commitment to support local needs and positions Taunton as a leader in integrated community development.”