Residents near Taunton are gearing up for a renewed fight to protect a vital ‘green wedge’ after a developer appealed against the council’s rejection of plans for 125 new homes.
In 2012, the Taunton Deane Core Strategy designated nine green wedges—key landscapes intended to preserve the environment and prevent unnecessary urban sprawl between Taunton and neighboring villages. One of these, the green wedge near Trull, is now at the center of controversy.
Earlier this year, Somerset Council firmly rejected a proposal to review these green wedges, which would have removed the so-called Trull Ridge green wedge altogether. Shortly thereafter, the council’s planning committee declined an application by BSL Strategic Ltd to build 125 homes on part of the same green wedge.
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However, the developer has lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate, potentially overturning the council’s decision by year’s end. This has left local residents with just weeks to submit their views once more.
The proposed housing development includes a spine road linking Comeytrowe Road to College Way, along with upgrades to an existing footpath on the site’s western boundary. Of the 125 homes, 31 are designated as affordable housing, aligning with the council’s target of 25 percent affordable housing for developments of this size within Taunton Deane.
BSL’s appeal argues that the benefits—especially the delivery of affordable homes and financial contributions to local schools and GP surgeries—outweigh the environmental harm to the green wedge.
A spokesperson for Tetlow King Planning, representing the developer, stated: “Under the National Planning Policy Framework, planning permission should be granted unless the adverse impacts significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits. While there are negative impacts on the green wedge and local heritage, these are outweighed by the urgent need for housing.”
Local Liberal Democrat councillor Dawn Johnson expressed cautious concern: “We anticipated this appeal. The inquiry will be critical, and we are coordinating the community’s response. The council has appointed an external planning expert to defend its decision robustly.”
Residents wishing to comment can do so by quoting case reference number 6008715 with the Planning Inspectorate by June 22. The date for the public inquiry, expected to be held at the council’s Taunton offices, will be announced soon.
Meanwhile, additional development pressures persist as Strongvox Homes has hinted at plans for up to 40 homes on another section of the green wedge, near Honiton Road. The council is also evaluating a proposal to convert part of Comeytrowe Road into a “green lane” to restrict motor vehicles, enhancing pedestrian and cyclist access.
With the clock ticking, the future of Taunton’s cherished green wedges—and the community’s voice—hangs in the balance.