Shropshire's Tasley Garden Village: 1,500-Home Plan Nears Approval
Plans for a major new housing development near the picturesque West Midlands town of Bridgnorth in Shropshire could be set for approval next week. The controversial Tasley Garden Village proposal, which has been in discussion for around five years, would see up to 1,500 homes built on a 270-acre site.
Developer Proposals and Garden Village Principles
Residential developers Bloor Homes and Taylor Wimpey are at the forefront of the scheme, which they describe as a "unique opportunity" to create a new neighbourhood based on Garden Village principles. According to documents recently lodged on the Shropshire Council website, planning officers have recommended granting permission ahead of the southern planning committee meeting on Tuesday, February 24.
The development aims to be a self-contained, sustainable, and high-quality community, with plans including a primary school, retirement housing, a country park, sports pitches, and associated facilities. The access statement in council documents emphasizes that the site will have a distinct character while respecting local vernacular and making best use of the varied attributes of the location.
Council Recommendation and Developer Contributions
A report set to go before councillors on February 24 at 2 pm acknowledges that while the residential and commercial elements do not fully align with development policy, there are "sufficiently positive aspects" to justify approval. The documents outline around £7 million in developer contributions, with 20% of the homes allocated as affordable housing—potentially up to 300 properties—alongside homes for first-time buyers.
"The balancing exercise for this site is consequently weighed heavily in favour of approval, and there are no other material considerations which, when weighed in the planning balance, outweigh the presumption in favour of sustainable development," the report states.
Historical Context and Local Opposition
This site was originally identified by Shropshire Council five years ago as a potential strategic growth area in local plans that have since been scrapped. Initial proposals included 1,100 homes, a primary school, shops, and 37 acres of employment land.
However, the plan has faced opposition from local councils. Bridgnorth Town Council described the idea as "unsound," arguing that more work is needed to assess the impact on roads, services, and facilities. Tasley Parish Council, where much of the site is located, stated the development is "too big and sited in the wrong location," with both councils expressing concerns over its proximity to another development.
The final decision now rests with Shropshire Council's southern planning committee, which will meet to consider the recommendation next week.
