Easthams
Crewkerne
Local Planning Authority: Somerset Council
Client: Taylor Wimpey
Status:
Project type: Urban Extension
Role: Masterplanning, Planning
Delivering viability and design excellence
Origin3 played a pivotal role in bringing forward the strategic housing allocation at Crewkerne, guiding the site through complex planning and delivery stages during a challenging economic climate.
Initially, we led a detailed viability review of the allocated site—Easthams—at a time when the UK was emerging from recession. Working closely with stakeholders, we successfully renegotiated the terms of the Section 106 agreement to reflect market conditions, unlocking the potential for delivery of the 535 home development.
This site had previously undergone a Princes Foundation Examination, which helped shape its early principles, including the preparation of a Design Code aimed at securing high standards of placemaking and urban design. Building on this foundation, Origin3 later assumed a lead role in managing the Environmental Impact Assessment process and took responsibility for coordinating the discharge of planning conditions tied to the consent.
In parallel, we produced a revised Design Code, carefully balancing quality and practicality. This ensured that while architectural ambition and site character were preserved, the scheme also became commercially viable paving the way for a deliverable, high-quality new neighbourhood that met the needs of both future residents and the wider Crewkerne community.