From Tuesday this week, an Independent Inspector has been hearing an appeal by Taylor Wimpey Homes, after their planning application was turned down by Councillors on B&NES' Development Control Committee back in May to build 135 homes in Monger Lane, Midsomer Norton.

The hearing is taking place at Farrington Park and is likely to continue until Thursday. Many residents attended the first day on Tuesday, to voice their concerns – mainly on grounds of highway safety, character and appearance, and also the fact that this would be a greenfield development.

Speaking on Tuesday, Cllr Barry Macrae (Cons., MSN North), who has objected against the proposals, said: "This case is being handled very sensitively – it is exceedingly technical. B&NES are now in a position where it has a draft plan that is capable of being considered, so, hopefully, the area will be less vulnerable to these kind of developments."

After the hearing, a report with a decision could be published within a month.