A renewed planning application to build 200 homes on the southern outskirts of Bath has sparked fresh controversy among local residents. The Hignett Family Trust’s proposal targets fields in Combe Down, known as the South Stoke Plateau, offering a reduced scale compared to the previously rejected 290-home plan.
Despite the lowered number of houses, community response remains overwhelmingly negative. Over 120 objections have been submitted to Bath and North East Somerset Council, with only a handful expressing support. Many locals argue that the reduced scale does little to address fundamental concerns about traffic, environmental impact, and the loss of natural beauty.
Karen Holman highlighted worries about increased congestion near the already busy A367 roundabout by Odd Down Park and Ride, citing frequent road rage incidents. Timothy Simmons emphasized the damage to the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), stating that the proposal is “too big” and would spoil vistas that future generations deserve to enjoy.
READ MORE: Secluded Treehouse in Somerset Woods Approved After Six-Year Wait
READ MORE: Somerset Hotels Shine in The Telegraph’s Top UK Hospitality Guide
The project forms the next stage of the Sulis Down development, extending beyond the initial housing near the Park & Ride. Plans include a connecting road through Sulis Manor’s grounds. In 2024, councilors overwhelmingly voted to reject the original application, with 7 out of 8 members opposing it. An appeal to the planning inspectorate also upheld the refusal, citing adverse effects on the Cotswolds National Landscape.
Though the developers have lowered house heights in response to criticism, many residents feel the adjustments are insufficient. William Taylor remarked that the proposal fails to truly address site suitability concerns, while Kate Himsworth-Razeghi referred to it as merely a “modestly scaled back version” of a previously rejected plan.
There are a few voices in support, such as Hugh Pemberton, who views the development as a necessary response to Bath’s housing shortage. He argues the scheme would provide affordable homes with minimal environmental cost and is well-served by public transportation.
The developers have promised that 40% of the homes will be affordable and that the development will include community amenities like a hall, village green, playground, and allotments. Their planning statement describes Sulis Down as “a beautiful new addition to the City of Bath,” emphasizing sustainability and quality design that blends with the natural landscape.
As debate intensifies, the planning committee must weigh the competing interests of growth and preservation once again.