Residents of Trull, a small village in Somerset, have rallied together to oppose plans for building 125 homes on a cherished local ‘green wedge.’ In just one week, the community successfully raised over £30,000 to fund their legal battle against the development.
Somerset Council’s West Planning Committee refused the application submitted by BSL Strategic Ltd. in late February, citing concerns over the impact on Trull Ridge’s green wedge. However, the developer lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate in early May, accelerating the need for swift community action before a public inquiry scheduled for early September.
In response, Trull Parish Council committed £3,000 for initial legal fees and launched a CrowdJustice campaign to raise an additional £27,000 to secure expert legal representation. This campaign quickly gained momentum, amassing £26,000 from residents and local supporters, with the council pledging to cover the remaining funds to reach the full target.
READ MORE: The Somerset Town Booming in Industry Amid a Growing Homelessness Crisis
READ MORE: Much-loved Daughter, 17, Among This Week’s Somerset Funeral Notices
This proactive approach allows the parish council to attain ‘Rule 6 status,’ enabling them to instruct their own barrister and actively participate in the inquiry. Such involvement ensures that Trull’s residents have a strong, legal voice during the examination of the appeal. This tactic was recently employed with success by another Somerset group, People of Packsaddle, who defended their land against a similar development appeal.
Trull Parish Council Chair Martine Naughton expressed deep pride in the community’s response: “To see our community unite so powerfully to raise over £25,621 is nothing short of incredible. Thanks to this overwhelming support and the council’s commitment, we can protect our village identity by ensuring our voices are heard legally in the inquiry.”
The estimated total cost for contesting the appeal, including legal fees and expert witnesses, is around £30,250. With nearly £29,000 raised, only a small shortfall remains. The CrowdJustice campaign will remain open for two more weeks to gather any additional donations.
Residents are encouraged to contribute and submit local evidence regarding potential landscape damage, environmental concerns, and increased traffic impacts. Formal representations can be made to the Planning Inspectorate by June 22 using case reference number 6008715.
Vice-Chairman Nick Hancock praised the community’s achievement: “What we have as a community achieved here is phenomenal – an amazing sum raised in such a short time. Other nearby areas like Comeytrowe have joined in supporting us, reinforcing our collective strength.”
The public inquiry will commence on September 8, with the venue to be announced soon. The process will include a site visit by the inspector, and a final decision is anticipated before the end of the year.