Detailed plans unveiled for Staplegrove East housing development in Taunton

Taunton's ambitious Staplegrove urban extension is progressing as detailed plans for the Staplegrove East development have been unveiled, promising 915 high-quality, energy-efficient homes alongside a host of community facilities.

Following public consultation, developer Stonewater, in collaboration with PM Asset Management, has revised the plans, which Somerset Council is set to review after Christmas.

The Staplegrove East proposal complements ongoing developments at Quantock Park by Bloor Homes, ultimately delivering a total of 1,628 homes and integrating a new spine road that runs from the A358 Staplegrove Road to Taunton Road.

With a focus on affordability, plans detail that 15 percent of Staplegrove East homes will be affordable, potentially increasing to 30 percent (275 homes) with additional funding from Homes England.

Beyond residential units, the development introduces vital infrastructure, including a new primary school with space for 420 students, allotments, sports pitches, and woodlands as part of extensive open space planning.

The local center within the development aims to enrich community life with a convenience store, creative workspaces, and flexible commercial spaces adaptable for cafés, restaurants, and possible residential accommodations above.

Significant open space efforts also include numerous attenuation ponds designed to manage water flow effectively, reducing flood risk by directing it toward newly established wetlands.

Facilitating mobility, the development enhances walking and cycling routes, aligning with longstanding community pursuits to improve connections between Kingston St Mary and Taunton for safer active travel.

Cooperation between Stonewater and local advocacy groups, such as Kingston St Mary Parish Council and the Kingston Area Pedestrian and Cycle Campaign (KAPACC), emphasizes a commitment to extending active travel routes further north.

Public engagement during consultations, attended by over 220 individuals, has informed these comprehensive plans, reflecting genuine collaboration with stakeholders and residents.

The Staplegrove developments underscore a strategic approach to meeting Taunton's housing needs while supporting sustainable living and fostering community integration.

Decisions on these substantial plans will be made publicly by Somerset Council’s planning committee west to ensure transparency and community participation.

For more details, plans are available at www.staplegrove-east.co.uk .

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.