Town councillors have this week voiced fresh concerns about controversial plans to demolish a business park in Highbridge and replace it with 62 new homes.
Burnham-On-Sea.com first reported here in July that developer Property Link is seeking full planning permission to build the new development on the site of the Morland Industrial Park in Morland Road.
The plans comprise of two four-bedroom properties, 27 three-bedroom properties, 27 two-bedroom properties and 6 one-bedroom properties.
At a meeting of the Town Council last night (Monday, September 2nd), councillors said jobs could be lost if firms at the park have to re-locate.
Cllr Phil Harvey said: “This is a very important site for Highbridge. The loss of employment land must be carefully taken into consideration.”
“The plans would also see the loss of a busy social club, which would also have a big impact on the neighbourhood.”
“The site could be used for community benefit rather than simply more homes, grabbing money and running.”
Cllr Chris Williams added: “I totally agree – it should be looked at as not just a planning issue, but a community issue.”
Cllr Helen Groves added: “The development would generate increased traffic along Morland Road very close to Churchfield School which is already busy. Sedgemoor should carry out an assessment of the risks to children.”
Councillors said they are unclear as to who owns the site, given Sedgemooor District Council’s previous ownership of part of the site.
Pre-planning discussions are to be held with Sedgemoor District Council to fully consider the plans ahead of a final decision on whether the scheme is approved.
Councillors on the Town Council’s planning applications committee last month decided to “strongly object” against the scheme.
