More than 200 extra homes could be built on Bridgwater's southern edge if new plans are given the green light.
Bridgwater's southern fringe has experienced significant residential expansion over the past decade through the creation of the Stockmoor and Wilstock 'villages' – a pattern anticipated to persist with the updated proposals for the adjacent Bridgwater Gateway site.
Bloor Homes South West has submitted preliminary proposals (referred to as a screening request) for an additional 225 dwellings situated between Rhode Lane and the Hamp Brook.
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Somerset Council is anticipated to reach a decision on the initial proposals within the coming weeks, with more comprehensive plans scheduled to follow before Christmas.
The location sits to the west of the Risemoor Road residential development and at the furthest boundary of the Wilstock development – although the proposed dwellings would be within walking distance of the new Wilstock Primary school, which is scheduled to open on Campion Way in September 2027.
Entry to the development will be via Rhode Lane, with a new T-junction to be built providing priority access for traffic from the new residential area.
A secondary pedestrian entrance will be established at the western boundary of the site, with the current public footpath towards the Durleigh Gardens development expected to be enhanced during the building phase.
A spokesman for Blue Fox Planning (representing the Swindon-based developer) said: "The proposals are to be delivered in two distinct phases.
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"Phase one (comprising around 100 dwellings) is located to the eastern area of the site and forms an extension of the existing settlement edge.
"The development proposals respond to the existing site topography and support areas of open space areas and green infrastructure corridors.
"In doing so, this maintains key views and existing public rights of way, alongside a holistic approach to landscape enhancements and ecological improvements, which support a sensitive pattern of development while also ensuring overall net gains in the biodiversity value post-development."
Bloor Homes is currently delivering the Evergreen Parade development of 237 homes on King's Drive in Bridgwater – one of the final parcels of land to be built out within the North East Bridgwater housing allocation as part of the Sedgemoor Local Plan.
The developer also intends to shortly begin the long-awaited delivery of the Staplegrove urban extension in Taunton, providing 713 homes and commercial space within the western portion of the site on the A358 Staplegrove Road.
The council is expected to make an initial ruling on the screening request before the late-summer – with the developer expected to put forward more detailed plans by Christmas if this obstacle is cleared.