Green light for long-awaited £97m bypass

Plans for the long-awaited Banwell bypass have been given the green light.

North Somerset Council’s planning committee unanimously voted to grant planning permission for the £97m scheme, which can now progress into a final stage of detailed design before the start of construction.

Cllr Steve Bridger, Leader of North Somerset Council, said: “Residents have told us about the need for a Banwell bypass for decades, so I am delighted that planning permission has been granted bringing the scheme a step closer to reality.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to once more thank everyone who has worked alongside us to reach this key milestone, particularly those who helped shape the design through our public consultations. This collaborative effort has been vital and we look forward to continuing our work with you.”

Funded through Homes England’s Housing Infrastructure Fund, the Banwell bypass would provide a key to unlocking opportunities for growth and new and affordable homes east of Weston-super-Mare. It will also deliver miles of new walking, cycling and equestrian routes for more sustainable travel and create new woodland and wetland habitat.

The Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) that allows acquisition of land needed to build the bypass is due to be considered by the Secretary of State at a public inquiry expected to take place in the summer. It is not unusual for the CPO on a large project like the Banwell bypass to go to inquiry and this has long been factored into project timelines.