Proposals to build hundreds of new homes in Paulton as part of the controversial new “local plan” for B&NES should be abandoned because they threaten the village’s heritage, countryside and already overstretched infrastructure, parish councillors have declared.

In a detailed 19-page challenge to Bath and North East Somerset Council’s emerging Plan, which is out for consultation, Paulton Parish Council has called for four proposed housing sites to be removed altogether.

The council argues that the proposals are unjustified, environmentally damaging and could threaten Paulton’s identity as a separate village.

Its objections follow a packed public meeting on October 9, when residents gathered at the Village Hall to discuss the proposals.

The parish council’s submission challenges development at Farrington Road North and South, Paulton South and Mendip Close, arguing that the Draft Local Plan is legally non-compliant and unsound.

Among its concerns is the potential destruction of important reminders of Paulton’s industrial and agricultural past.

The Paulton South site contains a medieval field system, including ancient hedgerows and dry-stone walls, alongside possible heritage remains associated with the village’s coal-mining history.

The council argues that these features have not been adequately investigated or protected.

It also raises concerns about former mine workings beneath land at Farrington Road North, where nearby residents have reported subsidence.

The submission highlights the scale of development Paulton has already experienced.

Between 2001 and 2021, its population increased by 33 per cent, from 4,896 to 6,503, partly following the construction of more than 500 homes on the former Purnell site.

Councillors argue that this expansion has not been matched by sufficient investment in roads, healthcare, green spaces or other services.

Transport is another major objection. The parish council’s own survey found that 88 per cent of commuting journeys involve a private car or van, reflecting limited public transport and employment opportunities.

The council also questions whether local sewage infrastructure could cope with further development.

Its submission cites 363 sewage discharges into the Cam Brook during 2025 and argues that existing wastewater facilities require substantial investment.

Healthcare provision is another concern, with the council claiming Elm Hayes Surgery is already operating beyond capacity.

The parish council also criticises the consultation process, arguing that two proposed development sites were introduced too late for adequate public scrutiny.

It wants B&NES to prioritise brownfield land, empty properties and existing planning permissions rather than further development on agricultural land.

The council’s objections are formal representations, not an independent finding that the Local Plan is unlawful.

B&NES will consider representations as the plan progresses towards independent examination.

For Paulton - like other Chew communities facing large proposed development - the challenge from the community is whether further housing growth can be accommodated without sacrificing the countryside, heritage and community identity that residents want to preserve.

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