PLANS for nearly 50 new homes on the western edge of Wells have been thrown out over road safety fears and a lack of funding for new cycle routes.

The site lies to the west of a planned development of 100 homes which secured outline planning permission in December 2023.

Wells LVA LLP and Little Burcott Ltd. applied in August 2023 for outline permission to build 47 new homes on the B3139 Elm Close, near the junction with Gypsy Lane.

Stephen Morfey, who lives on Gypsy Lane with his family, told the committee on Tuesday (December 3) that there was still “significant uncertainty” over whether the new access arrangements could be safely delivered without either damaging his property or putting other drivers at risk.

“The traffic congestion and safety remains a major concern for me and my family – this needs to be fully assessed and properly documented before outline planning permission is accepted,” he said.

Brian Underwood, who has lived near the site for 56 years, said: “This site is well outside of the city boundary, extending into open countryside, and it reduces the green gap between Wells and Wookey.

“This will be visible for miles and have a huge adverse effect on the landscape compared to the New House Farm site where 50 homes were recently approved. The whole nature of the area would be changed to the detriment of everybody.

Councillors also objected to the planned build.

Councillor Tony Robbins said: “We can’t get away from the fact that this entrance is very narrow. “I drove down Elm Close on Sunday [December 1] to have a look, and I can’t see how this will work.

The developers have not indicated whether they intend to challenge the decision by lodging an appeal.