Somerset Council may decide not to defend an appeal over plans for 112 new homes on Taunton’s northern edge after councillors indicated they would have approved the development if given more time to consider it.
The proposed site, adjacent to Pyrland Farm off Cheddon Road, has been under consideration by Gladman Developments since November 2017. Initially, the developer sought permission for 180 homes, but after rejection by Taunton Deane Borough Council in July 2019, the proposal was revised multiple times, eventually reducing to 112 homes.
Following delays and complex negotiations—mainly around securing phosphate mitigation due to the site’s location in the River Tone catchment—Gladman lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate in early November, citing non-determination as the council had not made a decision within a reasonable timeframe.
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The council’s planning committee recently convened to decide what action it would have taken if the appeal had not been submitted. Despite significant local concerns about potential traffic congestion, safety risks near Cheddon Fitzpaine Primary School, and the cumulative impact of nearby developments like Nerrols Farm estate phase three, the committee voted six to none, with four abstentions, that they would have approved the plans. This effectively signals the council is unlikely to defend the appeal.
Key aspects of the proposed development include allocating 25% (around 28) homes as affordable housing, new vehicular access at the western end of Cheddon Road, and a pedestrian entrance onto Lyngford Lane. The scheme also promises over £1.6 million in contributions toward local school places—including special needs education—and more than £50,000 to expand GP services. Additionally, it plans enhancements to walking and cycling pathways, part of the local infrastructure plan.
Opposition from local representatives highlights concerns about inadequate road improvements to handle increased traffic, safety dangers for schoolchildren walking nearby, and insufficient consideration of local knowledge by highways officers. Parish chairman Marcus Walker and several councillors underscored the risks and the inappropriateness of the site for such expansive development.
Despite these objections, the council’s acknowledgment that defending the appeal may not be successful—particularly regarding road safety—shaped their decision. This stance reflects ongoing challenges Somerset Council faces with housing supply and planning appeals, as seen in similar previous cases they chose not to defend.
The Planning Inspectorate confirmed the appeal will proceed through written representations, with a decision anticipated by spring 2026.