Development plans on 'green wedge' land rejected

A development which would have been built on land designated as "green wedge" has been refused unanimously by councillors.

The site in Trull, near Taunton, would have had 125 homes built on it, close to the existing 2,000-home Orchard Way development.

Only three weeks prior, councillors voted to keep the site designated as a "green wedge", despite a report suggesting its status should be removed and development be allowed to take place.

Councillor Dawn Johnson, who opposed the development and led a campaign to get it rejected said she was "delighted" at the outcome.

Several members of the public spoke against the proposals during Somerset Council's Planning Committee West meeting on 24 February, highlighting its recognition as a green space in the area.

Planning officer Paul Sherman argued in his written report to the committee that while the development would "result in harm to the local landscape", the benefits ultimately outweighed the overall local harm.

He said: "Given the council is unable to demonstrate a five-year supply of land for housing, the benefit of the new market and affordable homes must be afforded significant weight.

Councillors ultimately disagreed, and shared concerns about traffic access to the proposed site, as well as there being no planned increase in local amenities.

Johnson added: "Our landscapes and green wedges are worth fighting for.

"I am absolutely delighted with the unanimous committee decision to reject the planning application to build housing on the Trull Ridge Green Wedge.

"What a wonderful example of how passion for your environment and community teamwork can be a really powerful force for good."

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