Greenway Farm, a popular wedding venue on Skimmerton Lane near Bridgwater in Somerset, has received planning approval to expand its accommodation offerings to include more workers from the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station project.
Known for hosting civil ceremonies for up to 60 guests in its wedding barn and offering a restaurant on site, Greenway Farm is now enhancing its role as a temporary home for construction staff. In June 2023, owners Martin and Susan Felstead secured permission to install ten caravans specifically for Hinkley Point workers. Alongside five existing caravans leased to members of the Caravan and Motorhome Club, all 15 units are now set to be dedicated to accommodating site staff until at least 2031, with potential extensions if power station construction faces further delays.
The caravans are strategically placed on the western edge of the venue’s grounds, well screened from Skimmerton Lane and the nearby Shell petrol station, which houses a Budgens store and Greggs outlet. Since the initial caravan installation, the venue has improved onsite infrastructure by adding a private waste treatment plant and planting new trees, helping to clearly separate the workers’ area from the wedding facilities.
READ MORE: Bath’s Mistakes Costly but Johann van Graan Backs Bold Late Penalty Decision
READ MORE: Secluded Treehouse in Somerset Woods Approved After Six-Year Wait
A spokesperson from Clive Miller Planning, representing the Felsteads, highlighted the site’s convenience: “Greenway Farm is ideally located for Hinkley Point C staff, within walking distance of the A39 Quantock Road bus service. The existing ten pitches have been consistently fully occupied, reflecting strong demand from workers.”
The new accommodations provide Hinkley Point staff, many of whom bring their own caravans or motorhomes, an affordable housing alternative while working away from home. This arrangement eases pressure on local affordable housing by offering a practical option beyond the private rental market.
Despite proximity to the BP service station, the site maintains a tranquil, rural atmosphere, allowing workers to unwind away from the bustle of both their colleagues and the nearby amenities when off duty.
The planning officers approved the expansion using delegated powers rather than a full public committee, underscoring the project’s relatively minor impacts.
Greenway Farm neighbors the ongoing Centenary Heights housing development, where Cavanna Homes South West and Martin Grant Homes are building 675 new homes, a primary school, and a community hub along Quantock Road. Additionally, the council is nearing a decision on plans to add 275 more homes just west of the site, adjacent to Greenway Farm’s boundary, potentially increasing the area’s population further in the coming years.