Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: February 24, 2026

Purpose:

Content: That the application be refused against officer recommendation for the following reason(s):   The development proposed would result in the introduction of a large urban housing development into an area of open agricultural land which currently positively contributed to the character and the appearance of the local area and also provided an important area of separation between Taunton and the village of Trull.  The development proposed would cause substantial harm to the local landscape, in particular when viewed from the Public Rights of Way adjoining and within the site, from Comeytrowe Road and from Honiton Road.  The development would result in visual and physical coalescence between Taunton and Trull and would be harmful to the setting of Trull as a rural village which was currently distinct from the wider urban area.  For those reasons, the proposal would conflict with the requirements of Policy CP8 and DM1 of the Taunton Deane Core Strategy and paragraphs 135 and 187 of the National Planning Policy Framework.  The adverse impacts arising from the proposed development would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits of the scheme. (Voting, Unanimous, For)