Our Proposals:
Overview
Having listened to the feedback from the first consultation, our proposed Development Framework Plan (included on the following pages) shows how the site could come forward to deliver the range of homes, employment and community facilities proposed, alongside the creation of a substantial nature reserve for the long-term benefit of Ilchester’s residents and wildlife.
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Whereas we were previously considering proposals for development on both sides of the Fosse Way, we have now decided to focus on the area to the West of the Fosse Way, which can be accessed with less impact on traffic flow through the settlement. This will mean a new road access opposite the cheese factory, and no road access onto the Fosse Way. This will keep the Fosse Way primarily for the use of pedestrians and cyclists, and will therefore:
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Focus car use in / out of the Ilchester in a north-westerly direction via the B3151, connecting to the A372 and A303;
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Maximise travel by foot / cycle to access Ilchester itself;
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Keep traffic away from the village and the surrounding housing estates.
The current proposals are discussed in more detail in the following pages. This has been informed by specialist review of the site and its environs to ensure an appropriate response and maximum benefit.
Our technical work has confirmed the following:
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Our ecologists have confirmed the site is not ecologically sensitive, and there are significant opportunities for enhancement.
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Our transport engineers have confirmed that a new primary vehicular access junction off Somerton Road, with further secondary vehicular and pedestrian/cycle connections through Hainbury Meadows are technically viable. An additional pedestrian/cycle-only connection to the Fosse Way/Roman Road is feasible and would offer enhanced connections to Ilchester and recreational routes.
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The current scheme would avoid known sensitive below-ground archaeology, and could incorporate features that would help people to understand more about the historic uses of the land / area.
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There is nothing to suggest that development of the site would impact on nearby Listed Buildings and / or Conservation Areas.
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Our engineers have confirmed that surface water and foul drainage can be dealt with, and the utilities network could support development of the site.
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Work is ongoing to ensure any proposal secures nutrient neutrality, to avoid any potential adverse effects on the protected Somerset Levels and Moors.
Responding to the Site