Plans to build 56 new homes within walking distance of King Ina Church of England Academy in Somerton, Somerset, have been unanimously approved by local councillors after reconsideration. Developer Bloor Homes South West seeks to extend the Somerton Mead estate north of Bradley Hill Lane, adding to the existing 130 homes built in earlier phases.
The proposal initially faced delays in April 2024 when the Somerset Council planning committee requested additional details on access arrangements and child safety. However, following the submission of further information, the committee voted in favor despite ongoing concerns about increased traffic near the school.
The new development will feature homes ranging from one-bedroom flats to four-bedroom houses, with 20 affordable units to meet the council’s 35% target for the former South Somerset area. Access to the site will be via an extension of Maple Drive across Bradley Hill Lane, which will include a raised traffic island and give way markings to maintain flow in both directions.
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In addition to the homes, the plan includes a new children’s play area near the entrance, an attenuation pond to mitigate flooding risks, and significant financial contributions: nearly £616,000 towards local schools (with over £469,000 allocated to King Ina Academy), almost £167,000 for youth and sports facilities, and over £35,000 to expand Buttercross Health Centre.
Residents expressed ongoing worries about traffic congestion, especially around school drop-off and pick-up times. Mo Fletcher, of Somerton Town Council, highlighted concerns that vehicles exiting the new estate might exacerbate busy conditions at junctions on nearby roads. She also noted that proposed traffic calming measures lack real-world demonstrations, and that Bradley Hill Lane must remain accessible for farming needs.
Councillor Jenny Kenton raised questions about the location of the play area, pointing out that it is somewhat secluded without housing immediately adjacent, which could impact child supervision.
Councillor Stephen Page echoed traffic safety concerns, emphasizing the narrow, pavement-lacking Northfield road that serves the school entrance. He stressed the importance of preventing additional traffic flow onto this route to ensure child safety.
The approval is subject to the finalization of legal agreements concerning highway modifications, known as Section 278 agreements, which can be time-consuming to complete. Councillor Tim Kerley viewed the development as an opportunity to resolve existing drainage problems around Bradley Hill Lane through the addition of the attenuation pond.
With unanimous support, Bloor Homes may begin construction before Christmas, provided the necessary agreements are swiftly finalized.