Mystery Filming Set to Transform Axbridge Once Again Wednesday, May 28, 2025 axbridge somerset filming filmproduction amenities community recreation donations planning localcouncil Axbridge, a charming Somerset town, is preparing for another round of film production that promises only a brief interruption to local life. Scheduled from 6pm on Saturday, June 7, through 7pm on Monday, June 9, the unnamed … Read More
Campaigners Demand Safer Cycle Route Ahead of 1,400 New Homes Development in Taunton Wednesday, May 28, 2025 cycling infrastructure safety development monktonheathfield taunton council planning urbanextension transport As plans for 1,450 new homes near Monkton Heathfield in Taunton move closer to approval, local cycling campaigners are pushing for urgent improvements to a key cycle route through the area. The Somerset Council’s West … Read More
Community Fights to Save Erlestoke’s Historic Pub from Conversion Tuesday, May 27, 2025 erlestoke pub conversion heritage community planning housing wiltshire council preservation The future of Erlestoke’s sole pub, the George and Dragon, hangs in the balance as proposals to transform the cherished 17th-century inn into residential homes face staunch community resistance. The Grade II listed pub, which … Read More
New Convenience Store to Open in Somerset Coastal Village on May 27 Monday, May 26, 2025 somerset blueanchor convenience store anchor'sdrop planning council coastal development retail A new convenience store is set to open in the small coastal village of Blue Anchor, Somerset, following unanimous approval from local councillors. The store will operate out of Anchor’s Drop, formerly the Blue Anchor public … Read More
Farm Shop and Cafe Gain Approval to Expand Car Park onto Agricultural Land Despite Planning Officer Objections Monday, May 26, 2025 farmshop carpark planning agriculture countryside development southgloucestershire cotswolds localbusiness landscape South Gloucestershire councillors have unanimously approved the expansion of a car park onto an agricultural field at Tolldown Farm, Dyrham, to support a new farm shop and cafe near Bristol — going against the recommendations … Read More
Our Towns Are Being Overtaken by an Amorphous Blandness That Has Neither Character Nor Soul Friday, May 23, 2025 towns development heritage community housing market westcountry planning identity decline Nearly 25 years ago, I wrote about the bustling life of West Country market towns—places alive with farmers, artisans, and vibrant communities. I traveled through more than 40 towns in Somerset, Devon, Dorset, and Cornwall, … Read More