The Planning Committee - West of Somerset Council met on Tuesday, 25 June 2024, to discuss various planning applications and related matters. Key decisions included the approval of a mixed-use development in Wellington, the deferral of a housing development in Wiveliscombe for further information, and the approval of a residential development in Watchet.

Planning Application 43/23/0056 - Land to the North of Taunton Road, Wellington

The committee approved a mixed-use development on land to the north of Taunton Road, Wellington, subject to conditions including the completion of a Section 106 Agreement and approval of the shadow Habitats Regulation Assessment (sHRA). The development will include up to 200 dwellings, employment land, and infrastructure to support a new railway station. Concerns were raised about the impact on local wildlife, particularly a bat roost, and highway access. The committee resolved to approve the application with a vote of 9 in favour and 1 against.

Planning Application 14/21/0047 - Land East of A38, South of Walford Cross, Monkton Heathfield

The committee agreed to allow more time for officers and developers to work on the application for land east of the A38, south of Walford Cross, Monkton Heathfield. The decision was unanimous. Concerns were raised by the Parish Council about traffic and crossings between estates. The committee supported the request for additional time and highlighted the need for developers to address these concerns.

Planning Application 49/20/0034 - Land to the North of Burges Lane, Wiveliscombe

The committee deferred the decision on a housing development in Wiveliscombe to gather more information on Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS), open space, allotments, car parking, and the placement and types of affordable housing. Local residents and the Division Member raised concerns about drainage, design, and parking. The deferral was approved with 9 votes in favour and 1 abstention.

Planning Application 3/37/23/001 - Land to the South of Doniford Road and Normandy Avenue, Watchet

The committee approved a reserved matters application for the erection of up to 139 dwellings in Watchet. Local residents raised concerns about highway safety, footpaths, and engagement with the applicants. The committee resolved to approve the application unanimously, subject to conditions detailed in the agenda report.

Planning Application 05/23/0030 - The Gables, Wellington Road, Bradford on Tone, Taunton

The committee approved the change of use of land from agricultural to residential for the siting of four gypsy pitches with associated hardstanding and buildings. The Division Member raised concerns about the safety of the access point. The committee added a condition to ensure lighting would not adversely impact the area and restricted flood lighting. The decision was unanimous.

Planning Applications 38/23/0406 and 38/23/0405 - 17 Trinity Street, Taunton

The committee approved two related applications for the change of use and extension of a property at 17 Trinity Street, Taunton. The applications were made by a member of staff and required committee approval as per the constitution. The decisions were unanimous.

Appeal Decisions

The committee noted the appeal decisions as detailed in the report.

For further details, you can refer to the minutes of the meeting.