PEOPLE worried that hundreds of homes could spring up on open countryside near Taunton town centre are dipping into their pockets to fight the potential plans.

Locals have launched a campaign against development in the Green Wedge from Sherford and Staplehay to Killams and Mountfields.

Their fears were aroused when Taunton Deane Council’s draft core strategy suggested the area could potentially have up to 750 of the 18,000 homes the Government says should be built in Taunton by 2026.

Campaign chairman Dave Berry said objections 20 years ago to development in the Green Wedge were upheld at a public enquiry.

He added: “It looks like we’re going to have to do it all again.

“Planners have called this area the ‘lungs of Taunton’, so it’s disappointing they want to allow building on this scale.”

Homes are being leafleted and the campaign committee is appealing for donations towards promotion and legal costs.

Committee member Mike Threlfall said the wedge was a wildlife haven for deer, otters and kingfishers.

“The existing boundaries must be maintained and the distinctive rural character preserved in perpetuity for future generations,” added Mr Threlfall.

Resident Sharon Cox said: “The Vivary Green Wedge must be treated as sacred.

“If it’s allowed to disappear, then nothing and nowhere is safe from development.”

Cllr Simon Coles, of Taunton Deane Council, said the strategy was a response to the Government allocation of the town’s housing requirements.

He added that widespread public consultation was ongoing – and he doubts all the 18,000 homes will be built by 2026.

*For a comprehensive feature on the new homes debate, see today's Somerset County Gazette.