A PLAN for 14 ‘flexible light industrial commercial units’ in a Somerset village has been refused.

The scheme would have seen 14 units built on land at Halves Lane, North Coker, after an application to Somerset Council by Strongvale Development Ltd.

However, the plan was refused by the council, which said it was “not considered acceptable in this location”.

“There will be demonstrable harm to local character, landscape and the rural gap between East and North Coker,” the decision added.

Designs for the development showed a new access being created off Halves Lane, alongside parking and the creation of a green space behind the units.

The field in North Coker where the units would have been built. Picture: Google

“The design of the buildings will allow the units to maximise flexibility ensuring a wide range of occupiers,” the application said.

It added: “North of the site is the East Coker Saw Mills commercial estate with several units located directly opposite. These units include metal engineering, vehicle body and paint work repairs, they are semi-industrial with a hardstanding central car parking area.

“The Village Hall is located to the north west of the site. Beyond the commercial estate is a stream (Willow Brook) running east to west and beyond this is North Coker comprised of a mix of historic and modern houses.

“Halves Lane employment site (Saw Mills Commercial Estate) remains an important part of supporting employment growth in the parish and is protected.”

A report by a Somerset Council planning officer said the development could create around 36 full-time jobs.

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However, they recommended planning chiefs refuse the plan, and said: “Taking into account the level of visual harm that there is a strong reason for refusing the development based on the application of the Neighbourhood Plan, Local Plan and Framework’s policies that protect Landscape value.

“Furthermore, the adverse impacts of the proposal significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits when assessed against local and national policies as a whole.

“As such, the proposal does not benefit from the Framework’s presumption in favour of sustainable development.”

Almost 100 comments opposed the plans, citing reasons such as the closeness of heritage assets such as listed buildings, as well as flooding and large vehicles using the surrounding roads.

More than 50 comments in support for the plan were also received by the authority, citing job creation and support for small businesses, as well as it being in a “good location”.

However, in a decision dated September 3, the scheme was refused.

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