New homes to be built despite local protest

Construction work on more than 100 homes could begin soon, despite locals saying it would create "nothing but mayhem".

Developer Boklok Housing Ltd got permission to build 110 properties between homes in Lakeside and Walrow Ponds, in Highbridge, in December 2022.

Somerset Council has now approved a drainage scheme, which was the final stage of the application and means construction can begin.

However, residents of Lakeside told the council's planning committee the development would have a "dangerous" impact on traffic. The council said it was "aware" of residents' concerns.

Geraldine Stevens, who lives on Lakeside, accused the council of being "underhanded" at a meeting on 8 April, claiming "the views of local people had been ignored" throughout the entire planning process.

"If you had all gone and had a look before deciding, you would see for yourself that it is dangerous," Ms Stevens told the committee.

"This is the most ridiculous spot to build houses – this is going to be nothing but mayhem. Start thinking about your local people rather than money."

Stuart Jones, who also lives on the estate, added: "Lakeside has one entry and exit point onto the busy A38 – it is narrow and has tight bends.

"Boklok has been trying to sell this site for a number of years. We request a reappraisal of the whole application based on the dangerous and severe traffic difficulties this development proposes."

Boklok applied to Somerset Council to allow some work to begin onsite before a draining scheme was agreed, to speed up delivery of the new homes.

Despite concerns, the committee voted to approve the changes to the plans by eight votes to zero, with two abstentions.

The council said in a statement: "We are aware of residents' concerns and have taken them very seriously throughout the planning permission process.

"As per our statutory obligation, we undertook a consultation process which encouraged people in the local community to comment on the planning application.

"Additionally, members of the public had the opportunity to attend and speak at the associated planning committee meetings, the minutes of which are available on our website."

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