Residents in Paulton’s ‘Wimpey Estate’ received a shock last week when A5 flyers were distributed across households, which proposed a new housing development of approximately 130 new homes in Paulton. The development would run right the way along the existing housing estate and is proposed on green land located between Paulton and Farrington Gurney, which is often seen as one of the area’s prime walking locations with stunning views that are enjoyed by the local village, as well as the ‘Wimpey Estate’.

In the leaflet, the developer, Gladman, explains that “This consultation provides you with an opportunity to shape our proposals at an early stage in the process” and they go on to suggest the ‘community benefits’ of housing for all, public open spaces, a children’s play area, allotments and economic benefits. However, not everyone in the village shares Gladman’s view, as we found out when speaking to residents.

Anne Davies, whose property would back on to the proposed development, had already thought of a catchy campaign slogan to fight the developers all the way as she exclaimed: “Hands off Wimpey!” or H.O.W for short. She went on to say: “The Farrington Road proposal would completely ruin a beautiful area which already has a public footpath that many use on a daily basis.

“Paulton is already too overpopulated and the amenities over stretched!”

Her thoughts were echoed by another resident, Jodie Urch, who said: “We do not believe that Paulton has enough capacity in its infrastructure for more homes.

There are still homes being built and proposed on the Purnell estate, so how can a village the size of Paulton support any more? The local schools, doctors and dentist

surgeries are all full!”

She also spoke on the environmental impact the development would have. “These fields are used and enjoyed by so many people in Paulton – dog walkers, families, children, and it is so important that these green spaces aren’t lost.

“The footpaths that are in and around Paulton are an asset to the village and should be kept.”

The environmental impact was also a cause for concern from resident, Keith Mortimer. He said: “The proposals are on existing agricultural land. As we move into a generation under pressure for food sustainability and reduced wastage of natural resources, the land/location better lends itself to a more sustainable use such as crops, a solar farm or the maintaining of a nature corridor. All of which would be a proud legacy for the village and parish.”

Local B&NES Labour Councillors for Paulton, Grant Johnson and Liz Hardman, were also disappointed to see the suggested proposals and said that they would fight them all the way.

Councillor Johnson said: “This has been on our radar for some time, after several reports of extensive surveying in the area, and it’s safe to say we are not happy about the proposal.

Paulton has had more than its fair share of developments in recent years and to suggest that we should have even more on prime agricultural land that is enjoyed by so many is truly beyond the pale.”

Councillor Hardman agreed, explaining, “We will do all we can to prevent this from going ahead and save such a beautiful piece of our rural landscape from destruction.

“We already have the B&NES proposed Local Plan Partial Update to be consulted on, which proposes another 73 affordable homes on the Purnells site – when will it end?”

Gladman has welcomed feedback to its online consultation.