Homes approved despite fears over local drains

Locals said they were worried that drains would not cope with the new housing

Plans for new homes near a popular wedding venue have been backed, despite fears that local drains will be unable to cope.

West of England Developments (Taunton) Ltd applied in September 2023 to build 18 new homes on Abbey Close in Curry Rivel, close to the Old Oak Farm wedding venue on Back Lane.

Somerset Council agreed in early September that the wedding venue, which has been operating since 2011, can expand its operations.

The council's planning committee has now backed proposals for the new homes, while seeking assurances from Wessex Water that the village's existing sewerage system will be improved to cope with the additional residents.

Bill Covington, chairman of Drayton Parish Council, added: "There will be demonstrable and significant harm to our residents.

"Five times last winter, Wessex Water had to come out and clean up human sludge, toilet paper and hygiene products.

"You cannot keep housing stock in an isolated way while expecting Wessex Water to keep up with demand."

Planning officer Dawn de Vries told the meeting: "If consent were granted, the developer would need to liaise with Wessex Water to model and construct any improvements, if required.

"At the point of consent, Wessex Water has a statutory requirement to deliver the required infrastructure."