Residents of four Somerset villages are gearing up for a crucial vote on a new neighbourhood plan designed to shape the future of their communities over the next decade. The Oake Neighbourhood Plan, which covers the villages of Oake, Hillfarrance, Hillcommon, and Heathfield, is set to be decided by local referendum this autumn.
Developed after extensive consultation, the plan aims to protect the unique rural character, community spirit, and heritage of these villages while accommodating carefully planned, small-scale growth. Should the plan be approved, it will become a legally binding document guiding Somerset Council’s decisions on future development within the parish.
Spanning roughly 5 square miles in the Vale of Taunton Deane, the parish lies just six miles west of Taunton and includes the four close-knit communities. The plan explicitly seeks to prevent uncontrolled, large-scale developments that could disrupt the area’s charm and landscape. Instead, it advocates for developments that complement and enhance the villages’ appearance and atmosphere.
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The neighbourhood plan also prioritises giving local residents preferential access to new housing, limiting the loss of greenfield sites, and identifying opportunities to improve local facilities, services, and the environment. Recognising housing needs beyond the parish boundary, the plan balances growth with conservation.
According to the plan, retaining the green spaces around the older parts of the villages remains paramount. The development group behind the plan acknowledges the pressing need to address the housing crisis while ensuring any new construction aligns with the community’s character. The plan establishes design guidelines and encourages ongoing engagement from residents throughout the development process, from initial proposals through to application reviews.
At 100 pages, the document not only sets development standards but also includes a local design guide to inform developers of community expectations. The overarching goal is to keep Oake and its neighbouring villages rural, connected, and sustainable — allowing residents to take control of how their community grows.
The vision statement emphasises protecting and enhancing the community, heritage, and rural nature for current residents and future generations. The plan also aims to sustain and improve local facilities, communication, and transportation systems, and foster health, wellbeing, and social cohesion. With a focus on preserving recreational spaces, wildlife habitats, and the agricultural legacy, the plan provides a solid framework for the parish’s future.
“This is our chance to decide what kind of place Oake should be—not just for us, but for the next generation,” the document concludes.
If more than half of voters support the plan in the October 23 referendum, Somerset Council will be required to use it as a key reference when considering planning applications in the parish.