Signatures are pouring in for the petition to Parliament, started by Midsomer Norton Councillors, Paul Myers and Michael Evans and backed by other Councillors in the area against the large amounts of unsustainable housing developments being proposed locally. The petition also has the support from representatives in Paulton, Westfield and Peasedown St John.

It is hoped that as many signatures as possible can be collected by 21st March, with a coach being put on for those interested in travelling to London on 26th March to see the petition being presented by local MP, Jacob Rees-Mogg. Campaigners may also get the chance to speak with a Minister for Housing about their concerns.

The petitions are available in a number of the local High Street shops in the town. Speaking at this week's Town Council meeting, Cllr Michael Evans, said: "B&NES Council is not the only one to find itself in the position that we are in with the Core Strategy – our issue is with the Government and to appeal to its Planning Inspectors.

Cllr Paul Myers added: "This is our chance for Midsomer Norton to be up there with the great and the good, standing up for the Somer Valley. We cannot survive these housing developments without road improvements and extra jobs."

Councillors also voted on Monday night to spend a total of £31,250 on a specialist to help draw up the Town's Neighbourhood Development Plan. Based on the experience of the Community and Placemaking plans, it was proposed that Councillors and officers would not have time to undertake such a huge project and that it was important to complete it as quickly as possible as it will help the Town's case, should the Core Strategy remain unapproved.

It was pointed out that at least £7,000 could be accessed in grants to go towards costs for this and that the Town Council has a growing reserve for significant projects, such as this one. The proposal was voted for unanimously and the plan should be ready for 2015 when it will be presented for a public referendum.

The Town Council also voted through an Engagement Policy with Developers, to protect itself against Planning Appeals and to make sure that all discussions are formally noted.

Councillors also voted to strongly object to the most recent planning application which will, if passed, be opposite the land at Charlton Park which saw permission for over one hundred houses granted last year. Concern was expressed at the plans, (which will fall to Mendip District Council to decide), in that the developer may own further areas of land attached to the proposed new site, which could, in future, see it potentially double in size, creating a huge new

estate. They also strongly disputed the Developer's claim of a 'get to work bus service' and object on the grounds of sustainability, visual impact, traffic congestion and inadequate commuting links.

In other news, work is due to begin on the new amenity block at West Clewes from 17th March and testing may also begin on the new Midsomer Norton Town 'App' this week.