Plans to build up to 35 homes behind the Starbucks and Travelodge at Beckington Services in Somerset have moved forward after overcoming initial objections from local residents.
London-based developer OG Group submitted an outline application in February 2025 to construct new housing off Trowbridge Road in the village of Beckington, near Frome. Despite concerns about traffic congestion and sewerage capacity, Somerset Council’s East Planning Committee approved the proposal in December 2025.
Six months later, the council and developer have signed the necessary legal agreements, allowing detailed plans for the site to proceed. The development is located just south of the Beckington Services, bordered by the busy A36 connecting Frome and Bath.
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Access will be provided via Trowbridge Road, with a spine road running behind the Travelodge. The homes will be sited immediately south of the Starbucks café within the service area. To encourage sustainable transport, a pedestrian and cycling route will connect the southern edge of the development to Goose Street, linking residents to the GP surgery and other local amenities.
The housing scheme includes 11 affordable homes, meeting the council’s 30% target for developments of this size within the former Mendip district. Furthermore, the Section 106 agreement outlines community contributions: nearly £44,000 for Royal United Hospital in Bath, over £22,000 for expanding Beckington Family Practice, around £92,000 to support early years services, and almost £16,000 for a new multi-use games area nearby.
Traffic improvements will receive nearly £58,000, focusing on upgrades to the Beckington and White Row roundabouts. These intersections are earmarked for enhancement as part of the larger Selwood Garden Community project, which will deliver 1,700 homes in Frome and was approved by Housing Secretary Steve Reed MP earlier this year.
Local resident and farmer Clive Winterbourne expressed concerns in December 2025 about the impact of increased traffic on the village roads. He highlighted safety risks at the junctions around the service area, particularly given the busy nature of the A36 and the petrol station, which is one of only two between Bath and Salisbury.
A reserved matters application detailing the layout and design of the homes is expected by the end of this year. Meanwhile, a public inquiry into plans for an adjoining field development of 20 homes near Great Dunns Close faces potential delays due to inspector availability.
Additionally, the council is close to deciding on proposals for new drive-thru units, a petrol station, and an electric vehicle charging hub near White Row Farm Shop on the village’s southern edge, indicating ongoing development interest in the area.