Construction has officially started on 105 new homes within walking distance of Haygrove School in Bridgwater, marking an important phase in the area’s housing expansion. The project, known as Durleigh View, represents the second phase of a larger development called Durleigh Gardens on Haygrove Road.
Kier Living Ltd. initially secured outline planning permission in April 2014 to build up to 186 homes on the site. Notaro New Homes delivered 81 homes in the project’s first phase, located in the eastern section. Following David Wilson Homes' withdrawal, Notaro partnered with Lovell Homes, and Somerset Council — which took over planning authority from Sedgemoor District Council in April 2023 — granted revised permission for this second and final phase in May 2025.
Lovell Homes, headquartered in Bristol, has invested £36.5 million to bring Durleigh View to life, which will offer a diverse mix of one-bedroom flats through to five-bedroom houses. Importantly, 32 of the new homes (approximately 30%) are designated as affordable housing in line with the original planning approval.
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Sustainability forms a key part of the development: all homes will include air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging points. Additionally, an otter holt is being constructed onsite to support local wildlife, reinforcing the commitment to environmental stewardship.
Access to the new homes will be via Haygrove Road near the existing junction with Stag Valley Road. The development’s road network will connect with Fallow View Road at its southern boundary, creating a complete circular route around the estate. Complementing this infrastructure, up to 150 meters of new footpath will connect the phase two homes with the phase one properties and St Matthew’s Field nature area along Durleigh Brook. This path will also link to public rights of way extending through the Meads eco-park towards a planned 220-home development on Rhode Lane.
Anthony Vagges, Regional Managing Director at Lovell, expressed enthusiasm about the project: “We are incredibly proud to have broken ground on Durleigh View and to be expanding our presence in Bridgwater. This development will deliver high-specification, energy-efficient homes designed to meet Somerset’s diverse housing needs. We look forward to working closely with Notaro and supporting the local community throughout this exciting journey.”
Lovell is also developing other local projects, including The Oaks in Cotford St. Luke and Station Fields in Williton, underscoring their commitment to the region.
Joe Notaro, Managing Director of S. Notaro Ltd., added, “The start of Durleigh View is a proud moment for us. The entire Durleigh Gardens development will feature 186 homes once complete. These homes have been thoughtfully designed for modern living in one of Bridgwater’s most sought-after areas. We look forward to delivering this next phase with Lovell and helping build a new community.”
Two show homes—a three-bedroom and a five-bedroom—are set to open by summer 2026, with all homes expected to be completed by 2029.
Councillor Sarah Wakefield, Portfolio Holder for Adult Services, Housing, and Homelessness at Somerset Council, welcomed the progress: “The commencement of this second phase is a significant achievement. Our affordable housing team, alongside Notaro and Lovell, have worked tirelessly to bring this project to fruition. We are excited to see these much-needed homes come to life and contribute to Bridgwater’s growth.”