Bruton will see a new medical centre built alongside 65 approved homes, enhancing local healthcare access and community living.
The planning committee had delayed the decision twice in 2024. Some councillors were concerned about the designs. They felt it would create issues for the town. However, on January 28, they approved the plans after a third review.
The new homes will include 23 affordable properties. Access will be from Wyvern Close, which will be extended. There will also be public open space on the northern edge. Double yellow lines will be added to prevent parking issues.
The medical centre will be at the northern end of the site. A separate access will be created from Cuckoo Hill later. Some residents voiced concerns about the narrow entrance from Wyvern Close.
Alistair Parry, a local resident, expressed worries about traffic. He mentioned that the entrance would be very narrow for such a large development. Ewan Jones from the town council also suggested a better location for the surgery.
The government has set higher housing targets for Somerset. This means applications can only be denied if there’s strong evidence against them. Matthew Roberts from Symphony Healthcare Services said this development is crucial for better medical facilities.
The existing surgery is over-subscribed, needing expansion or relocation. Councillor Lucy Trimnell raised concerns about traffic and access. She suggested that Brewham Road would be a better entry point.
Councillor Tom Power agreed, stating safety is a priority. He worried about children walking to school with increased traffic. However, Councillor Peter Seib felt the road would be manageable.
After an hour of discussion, the committee approved the plans with a vote of eight to one. Symphony Healthcare Services will submit a separate application for the surgery soon. The council will also decide on plans for 49 more homes on Cuckoo Hill by summer.
