Somerset Council refuses plans for a new housing development at Northload Bridge in Glastonbury.

The planning application sought to build 27 new homes on a greenfield site and involved demolishing existing commercial barns. The plans included 30% affordable housing, which was emphasised in the planning documents as being acutely needed across the district. Additionally, the plans called for a large public open space area to be created, featuring wild flower planting and new trees.

The application had a mix of public opinions, receiving 12 official comments. Seven comments were in support of the scheme, and four were against it.

Among the supporters was Michael Eavis, founder of the Glastonbury Festival, who lives in nearby Pilton.

However, Somerset Council refused the application, stating in their decision notice that the development site is located in open countryside. They further noted that the negatives of the proposal would outweigh the positives. The notice also expressed concerns about potential harm to local habitats and questioned the proposed parking and turning arrangements' impact on highway safety and amenity.

Some residents had objected to the proposal. Concerns were raised about road and traffic safety, impact on local residents and amenities, and the environmental considerations of building on a greenfield site. Tania Ross, who lives near the site, mentioned her concerns about the already problematic traffic situation in the area.

It is unclear whether the proposal will be modified and resubmitted for future council consideration.