PUBLIC opinion is being sought over an application that has been submitted to Taunton Deane Borough Council (TDBC).

TDBC granted planning permission in 2015 for 650 new homes at Jurston Farm. That permission established the principle of the residential development and accepted the wide impacts on the highway network.

The original plans sparked controversy across the town, resulting in an online survey that gathered more than 500 signatures asking TDBC to reject the plans. 

Now, the council is looking to inform and hear from the public about the look of the already approved development.

The new application seeks approval for the detailed site layout and design of the new homes. The application surrounds 176 of the new properties in the south western part of the development site. There are also plans for a new roundabout on the A38 to provide access to this area.

TDBC is informing the public and adjoining properties in the area of the current application and is seeking comments. However, the council has stated that comments should be regarding the issues being considered, which are: access, appearance, landscaping, layout and scale of the development, as opposed to any other topics surrounding the new homes.

Deputy mayor of Wellington and ward councillor, Gary James, said: "I certainly feel people are entitled to some sort of opinion on the matter.

"The plan has caused a lot of angst over a period of time.

"We are reassured knowing that the builders are a good company so we can expect good quality homes.

"We are committed to providing a certain number of homes due to government legislation, so personally, I hope the developers can stick to the plans and take onboard the community needs and public opinions."

The public has until October 20 to comment on the application. This can be done by letter, email or online.

The application, reference number 43/16/0103, is available to view at the Wellington Town Council offices and on the TDBC website.