Plans for a major new housing estate on the edge of a uniquely shaped Somerset village have been formally submitted, setting up a clash over green belt policy and rural character.
Development Threatens Village's Geometric Boundary
Property developer Hill Residential has lodged an application with North Somerset Council seeking permission to build up to 200 new dwellings. The proposed site is a field lying west of Flax Bourton Road, directly adjacent to the village of Failand.
Failand is notable for its distinctive triangular footprint, formed by Clevedon Road, Weston Road, and Flax Bourton Road. The settlement's roughly 350 existing homes are contained within this geometric shape, a form that has defined its growth since the post-war period.
The new development, however, would see the village expand beyond its historic triangular boundary for the first time. The land in question is currently designated as part of the local green belt, a status meant to prevent urban sprawl.
The "Grey Belt" Argument and Local Opposition
In their planning documents, the developers argue the site presents a "unique opportunity to create a connected and inclusive place at the edge of Failand". They promise a design that strengthens the village, promotes walking and cycling, and responds to community needs.
The proposed homes would be a mix of terraced, detached, and semi-detached properties, with a maximum of two storeys, maintaining a "relatively low density". The plans also include street trees and traditional building designs.
Critically, Hill Residential is invoking the new "grey belt" classification introduced by the Labour government's planning reforms. This designation is intended for lower-quality green belt land deemed more suitable for development. The company contends the field should fall into this category.
This argument has been met with scepticism and anger by some residents. Nine formal objections have already been submitted. One local dismissed the grey belt label as "disingenuous," warning that large-scale development would "irreversibly change the heart and identity of our village."
Balancing Housing Targets and Rural Preservation
The application arrives as North Somerset works towards a target of building nearly 24,000 new homes over the next 15 years. To meet this goal, some green belt areas are being reviewed, though the council confirms this specific site is not currently among those earmarked for release.
Opponents have also raised significant ecological concerns. One objector highlighted that the land is home to deer, badgers, bats, and foxes, stating: "We must protect local wildlife and address issues that affect biodiversity in a negative way."
The council's planning committee will now have to weigh the pressing need for new housing against policies protecting the green belt and the clear desire of many residents to preserve Failand's distinctive rural character and setting.
