A significant boost to local services near the M5 in Somerset is set to come from a new housing development delivering over £3.2 million in community funding.
Originally granted outline planning permission on appeal in February 2024, Gladman Developments planned up to 100 homes on North End in Creech St. Michael, just east of the M5 near Taunton. The site was later acquired by Bellway South West, who secured detailed planning permission from Somerset Council in October 2025 to build the same number of homes.
Now under construction, the development—named Celtic Gardens—will feature 100 homes, including 25 affordable units, fulfilling the council’s target for housing schemes of this scale within the former Taunton Deane area.
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Set on 14 acres at the northern edge of Creech St. Michael, the estate will include more than six acres of public open space, a pedestrian link to existing playing fields near Hyde Lane, and a central green with a children’s play area accessible to both residents and the wider community.
Through a Section 106 legal agreement, Bellway commits over £1.7 million to local village facilities, with £1.5 million directed towards expanding nursery, primary, secondary, and special needs education provisions nearby. Additionally, over £2 million will be contributed via the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), supporting broader local infrastructure enhancements, such as potential school expansions.
Sophie Schofield, Sales Director at Bellway, explained, “Celtic Gardens offers not only vital new homes—both market and affordable—but also infrastructure improvements that will benefit families and the wider community. With solar panels and electric vehicle charging points included on every property, this development also prioritizes sustainability.”
Housing options will range broadly, from one-bedroom flats to five-bedroom homes offered through social rent, shared ownership, or ‘first homes’ schemes. Market homes will consist of three-, four-, and five-bedroom houses.
Situated within walking distance of the village school, shop, and medical facilities, Celtic Gardens will also incorporate new wildlife habitats, dedicated walking routes, drainage areas, and 30 allotments for residents to cultivate their own gardens.
Interest in the homes is already strong, with the first properties expected to hit the market in July. An on-site sales office will open later this year, and the first homeowners are anticipated to move in early next year.
This development continues Bellway’s expanding portfolio in northern Somerset, following recent projects such as Peregrine View in Cheddar and Lavender Rise in Axbridge.