Somerset Council have published plans to convert an agricultural field on the Axbridge Bypass into a Gypsy and Traveller site. The plot, to the west of St Michaels, is within the Mendip Hills AONB and directly opposite the homes at the top of Farthing Combe and Woodlands, with access to Axbridge via Axe Lane or Cheddar Road.
The planning application, published yesterday, consists of a Change of Use, since the land is currently a farmer's field. It includes locations for static residential caravans, sewage processing and hardstanding for cars.
A section of the hatched area within the A371 will be converted into a filter lane for turning right into the property.
Since it's a significant application, the planning department will most likely be writing to local homeowners to invite comments. The council should consider the views of residents, as well as Axbridge Town Council and local councillors.
You can read full details of the application here: 02/25/00030 and if you have any comments then please use this link to make them: Comment on the application here
Local campaigner Graham Godwin-Pearson says, "All things considered, I do not believe that this site is suitable for a gypsy and traveller camp, or indeed any development, given its location within the AONB, its proximity to the busy bypass, and its relationship to nearby residential properties.
"Proximity to the A371 raises a red flag. It's a busy road and until speed limits are enforced with speed cameras, I don't believe that we can justify allowing more entrances along this stretch. Unless there are plans to expand the site even more in the future I am unclear as to why a filter lane is needed in the road. Other properties along the same stretch have not been afforded a filter lane.
"In addition, the green field site is an important slice of the Mendip Hills AONB. At some point we have to recognise that we need to conserve the character of our landscape and spaces for wildlife. Approving the proposed currently modest development in this location would risk setting a precedent for further incremental development within these gentle slopes of the AONB behind Axbridge.”
