A proposed residential development featuring 200 new homes near the A303 in Somerset may face delays due to unresolved legal agreements, according to the landowner. The Young family, longstanding residents of the area, has expressed concerns regarding the potential delay in the delivery of the housing project until necessary legal arrangements are finalized.
The family initially unveiled plans for the development, complete with commercial space, a community hub, ample parking, and a sprawling nature reserve extending up to the dual carriageway, in May 2023. Despite opposition from the parish council and local residents, Somerset Council’s planning committee gave its approval to the proposals in late-January.
However, Patrick Young has cautioned that the project’s progress is contingent upon the prompt resolution of legal agreements with the council. Addressing the committee, Young emphasized the need to establish contact between the council’s solicitor and the applicant’s legal representative to commence discussions on the Section 106 agreements.
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Section 106 agreements are essential for securing contributions from housing developers to the local authority, facilitating the provision of essential local amenities such as schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational spaces.
In addition to the 200 homes, the planned development includes a commercial and community hub area, a substantial nature reserve, parking for 40 cars, and noise reduction measures for the dual carriageway. Notably, 35 percent of the homes will be affordable, meeting the council’s affordable housing target for new developments in the region. The project also entails significant financial contributions towards early years provision, primary school expansion, and special needs support, in addition to funds allocated for enhancing youth facilities and the development of play areas.
The council’s planning team has acknowledged the delays and assured the landowner of the impending contact between the respective legal representatives to expedite the resolution of the Section 106 agreements.