More than 1,200 residents of Bridgwater have voiced strong opposition to the proposed construction of 220 new homes in the southwest corner of the town. Bloor Homes South West first revealed plans in July 2025 to build up to 225 houses on land between Rhode Lane and Hamp Brook, adjacent to the Wilstock Village housing estate.
In response, local residents quickly launched an online petition urging Somerset Council to protect the cherished green space and reject the plans. As of January 20, the petition has garnered 1,233 signatures.
Bloor Homes has since submitted a formal outline application, slightly reducing the number of homes to 220. A decision from Somerset Council is expected by summer.
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The proposed site, designated as part of “The Meads” in the Sedgemoor Local Plan, serves as an informal recreational area that supports flood prevention and biodiversity. Over recent years, the council has improved walking paths across the green space to increase public access.
Located west of existing homes on Risemoor Road and about a mile from the planned Wilstock Primary School (slated to open September 2027), the development will provide access points at both ends of Rhode Lane. Plans include new pedestrian and cycling links connecting Risemoor Road, Rhode Lane, and existing footpaths through The Meads toward the Durleigh Gardens estate.
The proposal also features a play area on the western edge and substantial landscaping along the northern boundary to screen the homes from The Meads and enhance biodiversity near Hamp Brook.
Of the 220 homes, 66 will be affordable, meeting the council’s 30% target for affordable housing on developments of ten or more homes in the former Sedgemoor area.
Marrons, representing the applicant, highlights that the development will deliver high-quality homes addressing local housing needs. They emphasize the design’s focus on promoting active lifestyles through green infrastructure, pedestrian pathways, and open space views.
Bloor Homes has a strong track record in Bridgwater, having developed hundreds of homes in Wilstock and Stockmoor villages and 237 homes near Willowdown Primary Academy. The developer is also progressing projects in Taunton and Wellington, including plans connected to a new £20 million railway station.
Alex Shaw-Young, a nearby resident and petition organizer, emphasized the importance of preserving this beloved green space for the community’s future. “The more of us who show our objections, the better chance we have of stopping this development. If you value these fields, please sign and share our petition.”
The council is expected to hold a public meeting for the planning committee north to decide on the application later this year. If approved, Bloor will submit further detailed plans before construction can start.