In a packed meeting hall, over 100 residents of Whitchurch Village in Somerset gathered with concern over their future as proposed development plans loom large. As they examined detailed maps and charts, their local councillor painted a stark picture of what the village could become.
Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES) planners are embracing the new Labour Government’s directive to focus housing development on the Green Belt—urged by the party’s recent “Build Baby Build” slogan. Whitchurch Village, nestled firmly within this Green Belt, now faces unprecedented pressure for change.
According to a 250-plus page Draft Local Plan, there are multiple sites identified along the Bristol-Bath corridor for development, including areas in Keynsham, Saltford, Hicks Gate, and surrounding Whitchurch itself. If fully realized, these plans could add over 12,000 new homes, merging South Bristol, Keynsham, and Whitchurch into one continuous urban sprawl.
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Whitchurch Village alone could see more than 5,000 new houses constructed—a prospect that drew the community together at the Legion on Tuesday. Organizer Faye Dicker, known for previous successful campaigns against development projects, highlighted the stakes: “If these homes go ahead, Whitchurch Village will lose its character and greenbelt status, becoming more like a town than the village we cherish.”
Dicker also warned of secondary impacts, including renewed threats of a controversial South Bristol link road, which residents oppose due to potential traffic and environmental disruption.
Adding to the community’s resolve, local councillors Tim Kent and Graham Morris, representing neighboring Bristol wards, joined the meeting alongside representatives from Horseworld and Whitchurch Village Primary School. “The support from different groups shows our united commitment to protect our village, community, and Green Belt land,” said Dicker.
B&NES council member Mr. McCabe explained that despite challenges, development along the A4 corridor and Somer Valley aligns with regional growth strategies. Planned infrastructure investments aim to facilitate these developments, balancing housing needs with transport and public services.
Among the key proposals are:
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An “exemplary” development at Hicks Gate, intended to integrate with Bristol City Council’s own plans, maintaining a green buffer to prevent merging with Keynsham.
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The largest site west of Keynsham’s railway and Avon river, including relocation of Avon Valley Country Park, and potential new amenities like student housing, a primary school, leisure facilities, and enhanced river access.
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A cautious proposal east of Globe Roundabout near Bath, noting the risk of significant harm to the World Heritage Site designation, balanced against potential strategic benefits.
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A development north of Midsomer Norton on a plateau with plans to preserve green gaps between the town and new housing. This site would require substantial road and pavement upgrades for access.
While other sites beyond these four also appear in the plan—covering Keynsham, Radstock, and Saltford—the threat to Whitchurch Village has galvanized local opposition more than ever.
Residents are now urged to actively participate in the council’s consultation process to voice their opposition before the plan is finalized, safeguarding their homes, green spaces, and community spirit.