Revised planning proposals could see up to 67 new homes built on the Goldwell Farm site, located opposite Wadham School in Crewkerne, Somerset. This follows initial outline planning permission granted in June 2023.
The site, situated east of Ashlands Road, has recently been sold to Allison Homes SW Ltd., a developer known for projects like Buttercross Meadows in Somerton and the Orchard estate near Langport. The company has submitted updated plans, with Somerset Council expected to decide on the application before the end of the year.
Currently agricultural fields, the development site lies north of Ashlands Road, opposite the Wool Garden estate under construction by Taylor Wimpey Exeter. Access to the new housing will be via a spine road off Ashlands Road, designed to ease traffic congestion, particularly during school pick-up and drop-off times. Visitor parking for Wadham School is planned to be relocated as part of this traffic management.
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Of the total homes proposed, 23 will be designated as affordable housing dispersed throughout the site in accordance with the approved outline permission. The development promotes sustainable transport options, with pedestrian and cycling routes connecting to local facilities, bus stops on Ashlands Road, and links to nearby public footpaths.
Environmental considerations are a key part of the proposal. Due to environmental protections following the Dutch N court ruling and guidance from Natural England, developments impacting the Somerset Levels and Moors must mitigate phosphate pollution. Allison Homes plans to install a package treatment plant onsite to remove phosphates before water from the development reaches the River Parrett catchment, helping preserve the Ramsar-designated wetlands.
The council’s planning committee south, responsible for major applications in the area, is expected to review and decide on the proposals publicly before Christmas, reflecting the significance of this development for the local community.