A controversial new housing development planned to the north-west of Thornbury has received approval despite vocal concerns from councillors about its “modern” architectural style clashing with the rural landscape.
Up to 595 homes will be constructed on farmland off Oldbury Lane, adjacent to the recently completed Park Farm estate. South Gloucestershire Council granted permission for the layout and design of the first phase, encompassing 179 homes, with the remainder to follow in later stages.
While the developers—Vistry and Sovereign—had received outline planning approval two years ago, the detailed “reserved matters” such as the homes’ appearance and street layout were subject to extensive debate at the latest council meeting on November 13. The strategic sites delivery committee voted five to two in favor of approving the design plans.
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Opposition centred heavily on the choice of red brick and the overall modern, urban style, with comparisons drawn to Harry Stoke, a suburb on Bristol’s northern edge. Councillor Jayne Stansfield (Liberal Democrat, Thornbury) criticized the scheme for being out of step with Thornbury’s predominantly rendered houses, arguing that paler bricks or rendering would better complement the rural environment.
“Thornbury has a distinct character with many rendered buildings,” Councillor Stansfield said. “These homes, with their red bricks and urban design, look nothing like traditional farmstead properties and feel more like Harry Stoke.”
Labour Councillor Michael Bell echoed concerns about the brickwork, stating he would oppose the application as the materials could not be altered at this stage.
Other issues raised included increased traffic congestion, loss of valuable farmland, potential flooding risks, and the planned bus gate that restricts through traffic despite no current bus routes serving the estate. The development does include community amenities such as allotments, recreational spaces, a gym trail, and provisions for a primary school and a small shopping centre in later phases.
Despite local opposition and these reservations, the government’s Planning Inspectorate granted outline permission after the council missed the deadline for their initial decision.
Bridget Westcott, representing the developers, emphasized the project’s benefits: “Building materials and frontage treatments have been carefully refined following council advice to comply with design policies and create a strong sense of place. This application delivers much-needed housing, significant affordable homes, and important new community infrastructure.”