MORE than 500 objections have been made to plans for up to 90 new homes on a field south of Manor Road in Saltford.
Crest Nicholson, which is seeking outline planning permission from Bath & North East Somerset Council, says 45% of the properties would be ‘affordable’.
Saltford Parish Council is among those objecting to the scheme.
It notes that a previous proposal for new homes on the same site was refused by B&NES Council and subsequently dismissed on appeal by the Secretary of State in 2014, on the grounds that it constituted inappropriate development in the green belt.
The parish council also argues that the site should not be regarded as grey-belt land and that significant weight should be given to the site’s landscape value.
It also points out that the site is not identified for potential development in B&NES Council’s emerging Local Plan.
Particular concern is expressed regarding the relationship of the site to Longwood woodland, wildlife corridors, mature trees and hedgerows along Manor Road, and the potential impact on protected and notable species.
The council has requested that a full environmental impact assessment be undertaken before any planning decision is reached.
It questions the need for housing at this site, citing Saltford’s significant growth over recent decades.
It is concerned about the prospect of extra traffic in the area, particularly with existing congestion on the nearby A4 Bath Road, and the cumulative impact of development on school provision, health services and community facilities.
The parish council is also worried about highway safety near Saltford Primary School and Happy Days Pre-School.
B&NES councillor Duncan Hounsell (Saltford ward) has requested that the planning application be determined by B&NES Council’s planning committee.
He said: “This is one of the most sensitive sites in Saltford. There will be considerable public interest both locally and further afield.”
In calling for the plan to be refused, Cllr Hounsell said: “This attractive rise of land has a distinctive character and quality and is highly valued, reflecting this land’s significance as a place.
“The field holds memories and associations stretching back generations.”
He added that the proposed two-storey homes would obscure the view of the skyline.
“Approval of this application would set a precedent and produce a “domino effect” putting green belt around Saltford under great threat.”
Crest Nicholson says the development site is close to community facilities, supporting sustainable living, and the scheme includes open spaces, play areas, and green buffers.
The developer said a new pedestrian crossing is proposed in response to concerns about schoolchildren crossing Manor Road.
The deadline for comments has now passed. There were three in support, citing the need for housing for local people.
As previously reported by the Voice, Taylor Wimpey wants to build up to 105 new homes on a field on the Keynsham side of Manor Road.
The proposal, for a field next to Manor Road Community Woodland, has also attracted much opposition.
