Taylor Wimpey and Rodney Road development for 60 houses.

Statement from Backwell Parish Council (BPC) – 11th August 2025

BPC strongly opposed Taylor Wimpey’s (TW) housing development near Rodney Road in Backwell, but North Somerset Council (NSC) approved the project. After finalising conditions, building work will begin soon, with enabling works currently in progress.

As volunteers and residents, BPC understands the sadness in losing these beloved fields but once land has consent, a pragmatic approach is required to secure a safe and smooth build.  BPC has engaged with NSC and Taylor Wimpey to finalise a Construction Ecology Management Plan and Construction Traffic Management Plan, both have recently been approved. Whilst a consultee, BPC has limited influence as NSC is the awarding authority responsible for planning decision making.

Taylor Wimpey (TW) have been proactive and supportive of our local groups, having met with West Leigh Infants School, Backwell Playing fields Committee (BPFC) and The Scouts to put plans into place to avoid potential issues. TW are trying to complete their site access; part of the internal road and compound created before the new school term starts so that all their vehicles and machinery can be on site. On a temporary basis BPFC have agreed to the playing fields hard standing being used for works vehicles for a few weeks, this was a pragmatic decision to keep as many works’ vehicles off Rodney Road as possible.

When development begins, the landscape undergoes significant changes, it is difficult to make the transition. Residents experience increased activity from heavy goods vehicles, plant machinery, noise, dust, and general disruption. Living near a development site will inevitably have its challenges and be difficult. We urge residents to engage with TW constructively to share concerns and avoid potential issues.

The traffic movements particularly of HGVs is of understandable concern on our narrow roads with pedestrian footfall near the site to the school and playing fields with children’s activities. Due to parked cars near the site entrance HGVs are needing to reverse and are mounting pavements. NSC are working with TW to make the area around the entrance as safe as possible, this will probably involve some temporary suspension of parking on part of Rodney Road.

NSC Enforcement monitors the development and establishes safety measures on behalf of the community. During the initial phase of a new development, certain matters may require clarification and resolution. Thank you to residents who have submitted their concerns through the appropriate channels. BPC will continue to represent local residents with NSC and TW.

However, some individuals have acted aggressively and verbally abused Taylor Wimpey staff. Although frustration is understandable BPC would urge restraint, the workers are not the ones who gave consent, we all must accept that these fields will now deliver housing.

There are further HGV deliveries this week BPC would therefore advise residents and users of the Playing fields to avoid parking on the road near the site entrance. For safety residents are advised to stay out of the site, as the work progresses the site will become hazardous. For now, the footpaths are closed. Thank you for your cooperation.

Any issues can be reported to NSC, do feel free to keep BPC informed of any concerns.

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