Local councillors have approved plans for up to 38 new homes and a convenience store on the outskirts of Othery, a small village in Somerset. The development by South West Strategic Developments was initially proposed to include 46 homes, but negotiations with Somerset Council’s planning department resulted in reducing the number to 38, with 16 designated as affordable housing.
The approved site, known as Loadpool Farm and located north of the A372 New Road between Bridgwater and Langport, will see new homes built around Peppard Close and accessed via a new junction on the site’s western end. The store will be positioned near the main entrance, providing residents with convenient amenities.
To the east of the site, community-focused features such as public open spaces, a community orchard, a children’s play area, and an attenuation pond designed to manage localized flooding will be included. The affordable homes will be prioritized for local residents or those with close family or business ties to the village through a ‘local lettings’ policy via the Homefinder Somerset system.
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The development will also contribute over £23,000 to local NHS services, potentially aiding the expansion of Westonzoyland Surgery.
Despite the council’s approval, the plans have drawn criticism from some local representatives. Anthony Betty of Othery Parish Council raised concerns that the project would lead to excessive growth—approximately a 12% increase in village housing—and disagreed with the housing mix. He argued the site is not a sustainable location due to its access from a busy road and that there is a greater need for smaller, affordable homes rather than larger four-bedroom properties.
Conservative councillor Bob Filmer expressed sympathy with these concerns but highlighted the council’s limited options due to government housing targets and a five-year land supply requirement, emphasizing the risk of an appeal overturning a refusal.
Councillor Alan Bradford supported the development, stating that new homes are essential to maintain village sustainability and services. He expressed hope that increased population might revive local amenities, such as the village shop and possibly the historic London Inn.
Following a lengthy discussion, the planning committee approved the application with seven votes in favor, one against, and one abstention. A reserved matters application detailing the final design and layout of the homes is expected to be submitted in early 2027.