A renewed proposal to build hundreds of homes on the southern edge of Bath has once again sparked controversy among local residents. The Hignett Family Trust’s latest plan seeks permission for 200 homes on the South Stoke Plateau, a reduction from the 290 homes originally proposed and rejected in 2024 after widespread public backlash.
Despite the scaling back, the new application has not swayed local sentiment. Over 120 objections have already been lodged with Bath and North East Somerset Council, with only a handful of supporters voicing approval. Community members remain concerned that the development would overwhelm the area.
“There are still too many houses in the application, which will only increase traffic congestion around the already busy A367 roundabout near Odd Down Park and Ride,” warned Karen Holman. Others highlight ongoing issues with aggressive driving and congestion at this critical junction.
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Timothy Simmons expressed frustration, stating, “This proposal remains inappropriate for the area. Its scale threatens to permanently damage the vista of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), robbing future generations of this cherished landscape.”
The proposed development forms the next phase of the Sulis Down estate, extending from the existing neighborhood adjacent to Odd Down Park & Ride. Plans include a connecting road passing through Sulis Manor grounds.
In 2024, the council’s planning committee overwhelmingly rejected the original proposal with a 7-1 vote, a decision upheld by the planning inspectorate, which cited adverse effects on the Cotswolds National Landscape.
While the developers claim to have lowered the height of homes and reduced the number of dwellings, residents argue these changes are insufficient. William Taylor, objecting to the plan, noted, “Simply cutting the number of houses does not address the fundamental issue of whether the site is suitable for development.”
Kate Himsworth-Razeghi added, “This is a slightly scaled-back version of a plan already judged to cause unacceptable harm. The council rightly refused it before and should do so again.”
Among the few supporters, Hugh Pemberton emphasized Bath’s housing crunch, saying, “This scheme offers much-needed housing close to public transport with relatively low environmental impact, and should be supported.”
The developers highlight that 40% of the homes will be affordable, accompanied by community amenities such as a hall, village green, playground, and allotments. Their vision describes Sulis Down as “a beautiful, sustainable, landscape-led addition to the City of Bath, blending architecture and nature with thoughtfully designed public spaces.”