Plans to construct 24 new homes on Bath Road, Beckington—a small village near Frome—have been firmly rejected following a public inquiry. The development, proposed by the Gloucestershire-based Silverwood Partnership, was opposed due to concerns over its cramped design and potential negative impact on the village’s landscape and historic buildings.
The application, submitted in December 2024, targeted a site opposite Beckington’s memorial hall. When Somerset Council did not make a timely decision, Silverwood Partnership appealed against non-determination, prompting a public inquiry held on July 8. However, the Planning Inspectorate has dismissed the appeal, citing significant objections.
Planning inspector Juliet Rogers, who conducted a site visit on July 9, emphasized that the proposed development lay outside Beckington’s settlement boundary and failed to meet any exceptional criteria that would justify new builds in the countryside. She noted the site was not included in the recently updated Mendip Local Plan Part II, reinforcing its unsuitability for development.
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A key concern highlighted was the adverse effect on the local landscape. The planned homes would encroach upon the undeveloped, open character of the River Frome valley. Roger’s report detailed that the design’s tight, linear layout would create a solid mass of buildings, with minimal open space or tree planting, making the change stark and intrusive when viewed from surrounding vantage points.
Furthermore, the development’s proximity posed risks to several nearby Grade II listed buildings. Rogers pointed out that the construction would diminish the visual prominence and historical significance of these heritage assets. Additionally, there was a high risk that building works or future domestic activities might damage the historic fabric of these structures.
The inspector also criticized the lack of public open space within the site, concluding that the proposals would not provide suitable living conditions for future residents.
Local resident and campaigner Andrew Tyler welcomed the decision on the ‘Love Our Rural Village’ website, calling the site “the gateway to the last remaining rural setting of Beckington.” Tyler expressed relief that the refusal could halt further phases of development, particularly since proposed access from Mill Lane was deemed entirely unsuitable.
He added, “While this doesn’t mark the end of all development applications in Beckington, it’s a strong sign that planning policy can protect irreplaceable rural villages despite challenges posed by the current government.”
This decision represents a victory for those seeking to preserve the unique character and heritage of Beckington, safeguarding its rural landscape from overdevelopment.