District planners have given the green light 45 homes and an office block to be built on land north of Worston Road in Highbridge.
The proposal was given delegated permission at the latest meeting of Sedgemoor’s development control committee – despite objections from the town council and five residents.
The site, which is situated close to the A38 within the development limits of Highbridge, follows the line of the railway which abuts it to the east and forms a buffer between the railway line and densely developed residential streets.
Burnham town councillors had objected to the scheme, saying it would lead to over-development, could result in severe traffic congestion, and that access to the site would be dangerous.
They also pointed out that Worston lane is extremely narrow at this point, raising traffic safety concerns, and added that offices on this site would lead to a loss of privacy to neighbouring houses.
But Sedgemoor Case Officer Rob Morgan recommended that councillors back the plans, subject to satisfactory amended revised plans being received to include details of all off site highway works, a noise report, contaminated land details, door and fenestration schedule and additional landscaping at the northern side of the proposed access.
The application is for 45 dwellings and part two storey part three storey office block.
Last year, a major application for 47 dwellings and 12 office units at the same site was submitted. The application was the subject of extensive consultation and discussion and was subsequently withdrawn to afford sufficient time to redesign the scheme to meet, where possible, the objections and comments received.
