Plans for new homes next to a former Somerset mill have finally been approved, paving the way for construction to begin. The Nurseries site, located between existing homes on Cumnock Road (A371) and the former BMI site in Castle Cary, had earlier secured planning permission for 24 homes back in 2008. Despite clearance work, no houses were built until now.
Biophilic Ltd., the new owner, submitted revised proposals in January 2024, maintaining the original number of homes but altering the access arrangements. The key change involves extending Olympic Drive westwards to serve as the primary access route, while retaining pedestrian connections to Cumnock Road and Upper High Street. This shift replaces the previous plan, which relied on access through Cumnock Road sharing the same route as the adjacent BMI development.
Somerset Council has approved these amended plans, signaling that construction could commence before the end of the year. Discussions between the council and Biophilic during 2022 led to mutual agreement that the site must progress after years of inactivity.
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The new access concept was initially approved in July 2024 through a separate planning application, with the latest plans also revising the design of the homes to enhance quality and community appeal.
A spokesperson for Biophilic expressed optimism: “The Nurseries development will enhance the neighbourhood with improved landscaping and high-quality architecture, fostering a true sense of community. We aim to inspire other developers to adopt innovative design and construction approaches that deliver superior housing for future generations.”
Castle Cary has experienced significant residential growth recently, expanding into neighbouring Ansford parish and filling gaps between the town center and the local railway station. Major recent approvals include 162 homes and a primary school on Station Road by Persimmon Homes South West, and pending decisions on 200 homes on the Station Green site near the railway station.
Meanwhile, the council is contesting an appeal regarding 46 homes on South Street that were refused in December 2024. The Nurseries revised plans were approved by planning officers without a public planning committee meeting.
Planning officer Gemma Webster commented, “The proposed design and layout changes are acceptable regarding visual and residential amenity, highway safety, and heritage considerations. The original permission remains valid, so no new time limit conditions will apply, though outstanding conditions will carry over to this approval.”