Gideon Amos MP says the A38 should serve as a natural barrier for development Picture: Wellington LVA

MP joins the fight against plans for 250 houses in Wellington

Tait ap EllisMarch 10, 20250 Comment0

PEOPLE opposed to controversial plans that would see a further 250 homes built between the M5 and Wellington have received a boost in their fight.

Around 90 Wellington residents packed the United Reformed Church Hall last Monday (March 3) to learn more about Wellington Land Value Alliance’s (LVA) proposals to build on land south of Oldway Road.

While a plan has not yet been submitted to Somerset Council, LVA has launched a consultation for people to learn more about their plans ahead of an application being formally submitted this spring.

Gideon Amos MP (Taunton & Wellington/Lib Dems) has come out against the proposals, saying the A38 relief road, which the new houses would sit on the other side of, should serve as a natural development boundary for the town.

Mr Amos said: “On other proposed developments, I have argued that we need housing and particularly homes which are genuinely affordable to local people.

“But the relief road is, and should remain, Wellington’s natural boundary, which is why I clearly opposed development here when it was last attempted.

“Developers mustn’t try to take advantage of the fact the new Local Plan is now being prepared to get unsustainable sites, in the setting of the Wellington Monument, built upon.

“I took part in the public meeting in 2023 to oppose this and I will be objecting to this latest application.

The site masterplan Picture: LVA

“I encourage others to make their views, for or against, known by sending in their comments.”

Plans to develop the area had previously been rejected by Wellington Town Council in May 2023.

The Wellington Mayor, councillor Janet Lloyd, said she has “no doubt” the council will work with Wellington Without Parish Council to oppose the proposals.

The site comprises five agricultural fields, amounting to 13.7 hectares in total, between Middle Green Road to the east, Stallards to the west and Middle Green Farm to the south.

Wellington LVA said the development would consist of a mix of one, two, three and four-bed homes – including 63 affordable homes, public open space and “improved” habitat.

They said the housing mix would ensure there are enough smaller properties to allow people to get on the housing ladder or to downsize.

To contribute to the consultation, visit www.oldwayroadconsultation.co.uk

The consultation will end on March 21.