Plans to flatten Wells Rugby Club and build 106 new homes in its place have been met with a flood of objections, with residents warning the development would destroy a vital green space, worsen flooding and leave disabled people shut out.

The application from Stonewater Housing Association includes 76 houses and 30 flats on the Charter Way site. But campaigners say the plans ignore accessibility, biodiversity, and the need for safe walking and cycling routes into the city.

"The roads are already gnarled up with traffic," wrote Neil James. "It's only going to get worse with over 100 more homes." Others, like Michael Broughton, questioned why a site once believed to be protected was suddenly up for development: "Were we just misled?"

Accessibility group Accessible Wells described the plans as "arguably discriminatory", with no homes meeting M4(3) wheelchair-accessible standards. "This is social housing—many people in need are disabled," said Julie Heath. "They're being excluded." Campaigners have warned the plans could be open to legal challenge under the Equality Act.

The Strawberry Line Society also submitted a formal objection, saying the development would permanently block the extension of the multi-user path into Wells. Chair Stephen Turner said the developer had "ignored repeated calls" to leave space for a proper walking and cycling route. "If this goes ahead, the connection will be lost forever," he warned.

Wildlife concerns have been raised by residents including Dr Clive Weston and Wendy Goodman, who objected to the loss of mature trees used by bats, starlings, and other protected species. "These trees are not replaceable with saplings," said Ms Goodman.

The Somerset Drainage Board has also objected, stating the site is at risk of overland flooding and that the developers haven't adequately addressed surface water runoff. Others have flagged issues with sewage capacity, traffic access, and pressure on local services like schools and GPs.

Despite claims the scheme would provide "much-needed affordable homes," many feel the density is too high and the layout too focused on cars. "It's cramped, car-heavy, and completely cut off," said O. Heath. "Wells deserves better."

Somerset Council is expected to make a decision on the application later this year. A linked proposal to relocate the rugby club to a new site off the A371 Portway is still under consideration.