Plans to build 145 homes on the outskirts of Taunton have been refused after the developer failed to respond within the required timeframe. Broadlands Twenty Twelve initially submitted the proposal in January 2015 to develop land west of Honiton Road in Trull, close to the Canonsgrove halls of residence, part of Bridgwater and Taunton College.
Since January 2025, the council has received no communication from the developer. The highways department had previously expressed unresolved concerns about the proposed access arrangements. With no extension of time agreed and no contact for over six months, the council has formally disposed of the application, effectively refusing it. For the plans to be reconsidered, new proposals must be submitted.
The development envisioned a new main entrance off Honiton Road, with most homes sited between Canonsgrove and Sweethay Lane. Additional properties and allotments would have been located north of Sweethay Lane, connected by a road near the existing access to Trull Tennis Club.
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Nash Partnership, representing the applicant, described the scheme as “an exemplar development that the local community can take pride in,” aiming to create a lasting legacy for Trull, Staplehay, and Taunton.
Under government regulations, major housing applications must be decided within 13 weeks of submission. If extended by written agreement, local councils have up to 26 additional weeks to make a final decision. Failure to determine the application within these timescales can lead to appeals on grounds of non-determination. However, if no dialogue occurs between the council and applicant for six months, the application can be “finally disposed of,” meaning refusal.
Alison Blom-Cooper, the council’s assistant director for strategic place and planning, confirmed, “This application has not been determined and has been finally disposed of. No extension of time was ever agreed, and there has been no communication with the applicant or agent within the last six months.”
This decision follows closely after the council’s planning committee rejected plans for 125 homes on a green wedge north of Comeytrowe Road. Meanwhile, Strongvox Homes has signaled plans for up to 40 homes on the opposing side of the green wedge. Additionally, a decision on a separate application for 130 homes on Dipford Road, near Trull Cricket Club, is expected soon.