Senior officials in Somerset are encouraging residents to actively participate in discussions about the county’s development over the next two decades. Somerset Council is in the initial stages of consultation on its new Local Plan, which must allocate land for up to 75,000 new homes by 2045, alongside necessary employment spaces, schools and other infrastructure.
At a recent event organised by the Liberal Democrats in Taunton, MP Gideon Amos spoke candidly about the need for local voices to be heard in the planning process. Chairing the panel was Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, the council’s portfolio holder for communities, environment and climate change. Also present were Councillor Mike Rigby, CEO of Westward Housing Association Stephen Lodge, and CEO of Magna Housing Selena White.
Meeting Housing Targets
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Under current government mandates, Somerset is required to accommodate an additional 75,000 homes by 2045, representing a 41% increase since 2024. Mr Amos stressed that these numbers are imposed by central government, signalling a highly centralised planning approach, which limits local influence over decisions affecting people and the environment.
Councillor Mike Rigby highlighted the council’s legal obligation to meet these housing targets to avoid severe consequences, emphasising that the Local Plan must reflect these requirements.
Challenges in Delivering New Homes
Concerns were raised about the potential strain on local infrastructure due to the scale of housing needed. Jackie Benham, sustainability manager at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, warned of the environmental impact if infrastructure issues are not addressed.
Councillor Rigby expressed scepticism about achieving the projected population growth and housing delivery, noting the historical population growth rates and questioning the government’s assumptions. Mr Amos added that the anticipated boost to the economy through housing development is unproven, pointing out the substantial number of homes already granted permission but yet to be built.
Opposition to Proposed ‘Garden Village’
The proposed ‘Taunton garden village’ development on the edge of the Blackdown Hills, involving 7,000 new homes, has met with resistance from local campaigners. Representatives from the Save the Blackdown Vale group urged the council to prioritise environmental protection in the draft Local Plan and warned against breaching previous commitments.
Councillor Rigby voiced his displeasure about a related housing development proposal in Ruishton, condemning the manner in which the land was sold by the Crown Estate without expected financial safeguards.
Brownfield Developments Face Hurdles
Residents expressed strong support for prioritising brownfield sites-previously developed land-instead of greenfield sites for new housing, citing their suitability for first-time buyers.
However, Councillor Rigby revealed that demands for developer contributions to local services and environmental mitigation have made such developments financially challenging, though progress continues particularly at the Firepool site. The council has invested significantly in infrastructure to facilitate redevelopment here.
Mr Amos stressed the underuse of brownfield sites nationally and locally, describing efforts to hold owners accountable, including convincing owners of prominent local sites to advance development plans.
Affordable Housing Needs in Rural Areas
The panel agreed on the urgent need for more affordable housing, especially in rural parts of Somerset. Selena White highlighted the current shortfall and lengthy waiting times for housing, stressing the importance of addressing local needs to support families remaining close to their communities.
Stephen Lodge noted changes in social rent policies, which affect affordability.
Get Involved in the Consultation
Residents are invited to contribute to the ongoing Somerset Local Plan consultation before the extended deadline of 9 August via the council’s official website. This initial consultation focuses on broad issues rather than specific sites.
Councillor Rigby emphasised the council’s commitment to listening to the public to ensure the final plan reflects a shared vision for Somerset.
A summary of feedback will be published in November, followed by subsequent consultation rounds in 2027 and 2028. The plan is expected to be submitted to the Planning Inspectorate thereafter, with formal adoption aimed for March 2029, assuming smooth progress throughout the examination process.