Nearly 8,000 residents have appealed to North Somerset Council to protect Weston Big Wood, described as the area’s “crown jewel,” from being surrounded by new housing developments. Known for its ancient woodland and designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Weston Big Wood is a cherished nature reserve located in Portishead.
However, land adjacent to the wood is earmarked for hundreds of new homes as North Somerset Council strives to meet its elevated housing targets. The council’s draft Local Plan proposes removing green belt protections from areas like Tower Farm-fields and hedgerows bordering the wood-to allow the construction of 400 houses. Additionally, the Black Rock site on the opposite side of the woodland is proposed for another 100 homes.
Local visitor Tom Henley addressed the council on 8 September, emphasising the woodland’s value as a sanctuary during the hottest days and highlighting concerns that these housing plans threaten the delicate ecosystem. He cited regional nature recovery strategies that regard the wood as a critical habitat, noting severe declines in bird species such as swifts and cuckoos across the West of England.
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The Local Plan, submitted to the government in May, sets forth development and planning policies for the next 15 years. Following the 2024 general election, the Labour government increased North Somerset’s mandatory housing target from 15,200 homes by 2040 to 23,500. To meet this target while avoiding flood-prone areas, the council proposed releasing certain green belt lands-including those around Weston Big Wood-to what it terms “grey belt” status, despite their current green space designation.
Sadik Al-Hassan, the Labour MP for North Somerset, has voiced his concern by writing to both the government and North Somerset Council’s planning cabinet member, Annemieke Waite. While supporting increased housing supply and social housing initiatives, he stressed the importance of balancing development with the preservation of ecologically significant habitats like Weston Big Wood.
Campaigners emphasise that the woodland and surrounding fields provide habitat for species such as buzzards, roe deer, and greater and lesser horseshoe bats. Natural England has reported declines in the woodland’s health due to ash dieback and honey fungus, further underscoring the need to limit additional pressures from nearby development.
Tom Henley clarified his position, stating, “I am not against new homes in Portishead. My argument is purely about where they are built.”
Council leader Mike Bell confirmed that a public inquiry will be part of the approval process for the local plan, offering residents the opportunity to challenge decisions. As of now, no planning applications have been submitted for housing construction near Weston Big Wood. While allocation in the local plan does not equate to immediate development, any applications consistent with the plan are likely to be approved.
Other green belt releases for housing include the former Woodspring Golf Club, designated for a new town, with a planning application submitted in August.