Plans seeking to build 73 new homes on Orchard Lea, at the northern edge of Wells, Somerset, have been refused by local planning officers. The proposed development site is situated near the southern boundary of the Mendip Hills national landscape, formerly designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Rubix Land Ltd submitted the application in early April, advocating that the development’s proximity to numerous local amenities would help alleviate Somerset’s ongoing housing shortage. The site is nestled within a mature residential neighbourhood, bordered on three sides by existing housing and within walking distance of The Blue School on Kennion Road.
Access to the development was proposed primarily via Orchard Lea, with additional pedestrian entrances planned for Merlin Drive and Milton Lea. Of the 73 proposed homes, 28 (approximately 40%) were intended as affordable housing, predominantly as social rent.
READ MORE: Lorry Crashes Through Central Barrier on M5 and Leaves Road
READ MORE: South West Athletes Selected for European Athletics Championships Squad
The applicant’s representatives at OG Group highlighted the site’s convenient location, noting its accessibility to local bus routes, Wells bus station, major roads including the A371 and A39, as well as nearby schools, parks, healthcare facilities, employment centres, and Wells city centre. They emphasised the area’s support for sustainable transport modes such as walking and cycling through existing footpaths and quiet streets.
However, Somerset Council’s planning officers rejected the proposals, citing concerns that the development would cause “substantial harm” to the character of the Mendip Hills and would “erode the open rural setting” of Wells. The refusal was issued under delegated powers rather than by the planning committee responsible for major applications within the former Mendip area.
Bill Cotton, the council’s interim service director for planning, outlined six reasons for refusal related to the project’s impact on the landscape and local environment. At this time, Rubix Land Ltd has not confirmed whether it will appeal the council’s decision.