On 16th July 2025, there were two presentation in public participation providing information on potential plans for development in the parish.
Rock House Farm proposal
Representatives from Lightwood Strategic/Origin3 outlined the project and gave an overview of the proposed design (Appendix 1) and rationale for the layout for 280 homes at Rock House Farm development in Shortwood. This was the same information presented in the public consultation event on 15th July at Pomphrey Hill Pavilion.
Feedback from 66 attendees at the event included:
- residents not wanting the development but many resigned to it,
- residents had a strong preference for a vehicular access from the B4465 rather than from Main Road/Cattybrook Road.
Representatives advised this is South Gloucestershire council’s preferred option.
- pressure on doctors, dentists, schools and local infrastructure.
Representative advised that while this site was too small, some of the issues would be addressed in the larger Carson Green development in the Local Plan.
Currently engaged in pre-application planning with South Gloucestershire council, the intention is to submit an outline planning application in late October/early November 2025.
Questions for clarification:
- Plans for play areas. The intention is for more natural play equipment in wood. Council pointed out that wooden play equipment was not recommended for the soil conditions as it easily rots.
- Site maintenance. A management strategy for the site had not yet been decided. South Gloucestershire council wants a stewardship arrangement for all the proposed sites at Shortwood.
The public consultation information can be found at https://www.landatrockhousefarm.com and comments on the proposals can be made until 22nd July 2025.
Marsh Farm proposal
Representatives from IM Properties outlined the project and gave an overview of the proposed design (Appendix 2) and rationale for the layout for 100 homes at Marsh Farm in Pucklechurch. Access will be from Abson Road, the site masterplan aims to reflect and fit into the existing fabric of the village, 50% affordable housing with mixed tenure, no house will exceed 2 story and housing density is proposed at 37 dwellings/hectare. There are no formal sports provisions onsite as near the Recreation ground.
It is anticipated that there will be a public consultation in the near future and that an outline planning application will be submitted later in the year.
Questions for clarification:
- Public consultation – Representatives anticipated this would be online. Council requested a public event as well to ensure equitable access for all those wishing to view the plans and/or comment.