Somerset Council rejects plan for 18 homes and a care home near Woodlands Castle, citing harm to Ruishton and listed building character.
The plan involved the construction of a care home, along with 18 new houses, while the castle itself would be converted into a house. The council refused permission, citing concerns that it would negatively impact Ruishton and damage the castle’s historical character.
This decision follows another housing appeal loss, where Taylor Wimpey sought to build 150 homes. The Woodlands Castle has a rich history spanning centuries and previously served as a wedding venue before its closure in 2020 due to the pandemic.
In 2021, the building became a cannabis farm and suffered vandalism, leading the developer to state that repairs may soon fail. The plan proposed converting the castle into a home and adding sixteen more houses to the site.
The care home would be located at the site’s entrance, to the north of the current access road. Architects representing the applicant argued that it would benefit the castle, preserving the historical building and providing needed care bedrooms, while also aiding the local authority’s care targets.
It was also argued that residents moving into the care home would free up housing for local families, providing accommodation that better suits their well-being and improves their quality of life. The design also purported to enhance the area.
Planning officers refused the project using their delegated powers, avoiding a public committee decision. The head planning officer cited three reasons: the new homes would harm the listed building, contravene local plans, and the care home’s design would be out of place.
Furthermore, the development would extend the village of Ruishton, blurring the lines with Taunton Gateway. Belstone Fox has yet to announce whether they will appeal the decision.