The leader of Somerset Council’s opposition Labour group has voiced strong criticism of the updated proposals to construct 220 new homes on the outskirts of Bridgwater.
In July 2025, Bloor Homes South West initially outlined plans for up to 225 houses situated between Rhode Lane and Hamp Brook, adjacent to the Wilstock Village housing estate. Following this, the Swindon-based developer submitted a formal outline application in January, slightly reducing the number of homes to 220.
Local opposition remains high, with over 1,700 residents signing an online petition objecting to the scheme. Concerns focus on the potential loss of valuable public green space and the likely increase in traffic congestion.
READ MORE: Bath Road Closures: City Centre, Lansdown, Larkhall and Surrounding Areas
Councillor Leigh Redman, who has resided in Bridgwater’s Hamp area for over two decades, has reiterated his objections. He argues the proposals pose “unacceptable risks” to the local road network and put “immense pressure” on wildlife habitats.
The development site is part of the Sedgemoor Local Plan, designated as part of “The Meads,” an informal recreational outdoor area where Hamp Brook and Durleigh Brook flow. This green space plays a crucial role in flood prevention and supports biodiversity. In recent years, Somerset Council and its predecessors have worked to enhance walking routes across The Meads, aiming to increase public access.
Located west of existing homes on Risemoor Road, the site is approximately a mile from the slated Wilstock Primary School on Cosmos Drive, a project now delayed until 2029.
Access to the housing development would be via two points at each end of Rhode Lane, with pedestrian and cycling connections extending to Risemoor Road, Rhode Lane, and existing footpaths through The Meads towards Durleigh Gardens estate.
The plans include provision for a play area at the western edge and substantial landscaping along the northern boundary to shield the homes from The Meads and enhance biodiversity near Hamp Brook.
Of the 220 homes proposed, 66 will be affordable, meeting the council’s policy of 30 per cent affordable housing for developments exceeding ten units within the former Sedgemoor district.
Councillor Redman, representing Bridgwater North and Central and serving as Mayor of Bridgwater, stated: “As a native and long-term resident familiar with these roads and land, I can say the latest proposals do not address the fundamental problems with this site.
“Concentrating 220 homes here introduces significant road safety hazards, relies on complicated drainage systems where ground conditions are already problematic, and threatens an essential local wildlife corridor.”
Bloor Homes has been active in Bridgwater recently, delivering hundreds of homes in Wilstock and Stockmoor villages, plus 237 homes near Willowdown Primary Academy on King’s Drive.
Councillor Redman expressed concerns that the updated design would create a congested “pinch point” at the site entrance. Additionally, proposed attenuation ponds could bring long-term drainage challenges affecting the wider area, including existing properties adjacent to Hamp Brook and Middlestream Rhyne.
Ecological assessments by Bloor reveal the presence of several protected species nearby, including ten bat species, hazel dormice, badgers, otters, water voles, and kingfishers.
“Our local infrastructure is already under strain,” Councillor Redman added, “and our green spaces along with natural drainage systems deserve protection from overdevelopment.
“I encourage residents to stand firm in their objections. Should this reach the planning committee north, the concerns of the community must be prioritised, and this application should be refused in its current form.”
The council is anticipated to reach a decision on the application later this year. Given the scale and importance of the project, the final decision is expected to be made publicly by the north planning committee, which reviews major applications within the former Sedgemoor area, rather than by planning officers through delegated authority.
If approved, a further reserved matters application concerning the detailed design and layout will need to be submitted and sanctioned before construction can commence.