Somerset Council notify Bridgwater Town Council of all planning applications within Bridgwater.

The Town Council are a non-statutory consultee and consider as an authority whether to raise any comments in relation to submitted applications.

At the Planning Committee meeting on Thursday, 3 July 2025, Bridgwater Town Council’s Planning Committee agreed unanimously agreed to object to the application by Persimmon Homes for the development of 111 dwellings off Quantock Road. The application includes the formation of a signal-controlled access, associated infrastructure, landscaping, and open space. The planning application number is 23/19/00002/AGE.

 Cllr Tim Mander, Chair of the Planning Committee commented

“Whilst the planning committee accepts the national need for new homes it also strongly recognises the need for more affordable housing for local people and was shocked to discover that Persimmon had reduced its previous commitment on this site to provide affordable housing from 31 dwellings to just 16. This represents less than half the 30% target set by the local plan and was deemed unacceptable by members of the Planning Committee.

“ In addition, the Planning Committee were not satisfied by the travel plan and its failure to reach an agreement with a bus operator to service the development site with a regular bus service.  Finally, the layout of the two play areas was not felt to be conducive to families with mixed aged children”.

The final planning decision will be taken by Somerset Council Area Planning Committee North.