A small village near Taunton, Somerset, is racing against time to raise £30,000 within a week to challenge plans for 125 homes on a cherished green wedge at Trull ridge. The proposal by BSL Strategic Ltd was rejected by Somerset Council’s planning committee in February, but the developer has lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate, setting the stage for a public inquiry in September.
Faced with this threat, Trull Parish Council has committed to fighting the appeal alongside Somerset Council. They have allocated £3,000 from their budget for initial legal expenses and launched a CrowdJustice campaign to raise the remaining £27,000 needed to secure a barrister for the inquiry. This legal representation is critical, as planning inquiries involve barristers cross-examining witnesses on behalf of both developers and authorities. Parish councils can participate independently by invoking ‘Rule 6 status,’ which allows them to appoint legal counsel if they raise sufficient funds.
This approach has precedent in Somerset; the People of Packsaddle group in Frome successfully challenged a similar appeal by securing legal support through Rule 6 status. At a special meeting, Trull Parish Council decided to adopt the same tactic, buoyed by strong community backing.
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Local resident Alan Sawyer emphasized the stakes: “Strong community support is vital. Even if the appeal succeeds despite our efforts, failing to act would leave a lasting legacy. Development should be directed south, not to the north, if the village’s identity is to be preserved.”
Meanwhile, Strongvox Homes has hinted at plans for up to 40 homes on another part of the green wedge, adding to the community’s concerns, though no formal application has been made.
Carolyn Warburton, another resident, stressed the importance of local action: “Nobody knows Trull better than local residents. If we submit quietly to larger nearby towns, we risk losing what makes our village special.”
Statistics show that developers win about 65% of appeals following council refusals, underscoring the necessity for communities to engage legal experts. By invoking Rule 6 status, Trull ensures a stronger defense, regardless of any future shifts in Somerset Council’s stance.
The CrowdJustice campaign, open until June 5, has already raised over £8,500 through the generosity of the community. Parish Council Chair Martine Naughton praised this response as “absolutely immense,” reflecting the deep commitment of Trull residents to preserving their rural heritage.
Formal representations to the Planning Inspectorate must be submitted by June 22 using case reference 6008715. The public inquiry will open on September 8, with details to be announced closer to the date. A site visit by the inspector is planned, and a final decision is expected before Christmas.
Chair Naughton highlighted the financial challenge: “Our council precept totals £60,000 annually, all earmarked for essential village services. Funding this legal battle alone is impossible without jeopardizing these services. Communities that invest in expert legal defense stand the best chance of protecting their surroundings.”
As Trull comes together in this crucial campaign, the determination to safeguard its green wedge exemplifies the power of collective action in the face of development pressure.