LAST-minute comments on controversial plans to build 250 houses in fields to the south of Wellington Relief Road are being encouraged by a residents’ group formed to fight the proposal.

Protect Wellington helped to co-ordinate nearly 200 objections which were lodged with Somerset Council before an official consultation expired on February 6.

Now, the group is calling on protestors to continue to send their views to the council right up to the March 19 date when the authority has said it will make a decision on the matter.

Pegasus Group wants to develop fields around Middle Green Farm, which would mark an historic first breach of the town’s relief road boundary.

Protect Wellington fears it would be a precent which would open up all land along the south side of the A38 from Perry Elm to Chelston.

A spokesperson said: “We have been informed by Somerset Council that although the official deadline for submitting objections to this development has passed, there are circumstances in which the case officer may still consider comments submitted after the formal consultation period has ended, provided they are received before the application is determined, which is currently scheduled for March 19.

“We are therefore strongly urging all Wellington residents who have not yet submitted their objections to do so as soon as possible.

“Please add your voice to the already significant number of objections that have been received.

“Time is short, if you intend to comment, please act now.”

Both Wellington Town Council and Wellington Without Parish Council, in whose area the application site lies, have strongly objected to the proposed development.

The main argument put forward by Pegasus in support of its plans is that it would provide new homes at a time when the country is experiencing a national housing shortage crisis.