Developers looking to build up to 250 homes off Oldway Road have lodged an appeal against the scheme’s refusal.
Earlier this year, Somerset Council turned down an application by Pegasus Planning Group for the 3.7-acre development on the Monument/southern side of the relief road.
There was widespread opposition to the proposal including from the town council and Wellington Without Parish Council, which includes the site within its boundary.
Hundreds of protesters also attended two demonstrations, organised by the Protect Wellington campaign group.
A protest petition has also been signed by more than 450 people – you can add your support by CLICKING HERE.
A spokesperson for Somerset Council told Around Wellington today (Tuesday): “We have been informed by the Planning Inspectorate that an appeal has been lodged and that this will be heard by way of a Public Inquiry at some point in the New Year.
“The council will seek to robustly defend the refusal.”
A Wellington Town Council spokesperson added: “As previously reported, we are seeking legal advice about the best way that the town council can contribute to defending the original decision to refuse the planning application taken by Somerset Council.”
The protest petition was launched by Michael Pollack of Protect Wellington.
It says: “Protect Wellington is opposing the application because it would extend the town into open countryside, result in the loss of productive agricultural land and potentially set a precedent for further development beyond Wellington’s established boundaries.
“Protect Wellington is also concerned about the additional pressure this development would place on facilities in the town such as GPs and other medical services; on schools, roads, drainage and sewage; as well as its impact on the landscape, wildlife and the character of Wellington.
“Wellington needs new homes, including genuinely affordable and social housing. But the group believe development should be in appropriate locations, make use of brownfield and previously developed land where possible, protect our countryside and be matched by the infrastructure needed to support it.
“Please sign and share this petition to show the strength of local feeling and help Protect Wellington defend the town we all value.”
MAIN PHOTO: The site off Oldway Road. INSET: A shot from one of the Protect Wellington protests which was joined by local MP, Gideon Amos.