A small village near the A303 in Somerset is set to welcome nearly 50 new homes following a successful legal challenge by Glastonbury-based developer Galion. The initial proposal for 50 new homes on Broadway Hill in Horton, near Ilminster, was later revised to 49 following discussions with council planning officers.
After Somerset Council’s planning committee south initially refused the plans, the developer submitted amended proposals and launched a formal appeal. The appeal was successful, granting the developer permission to proceed with the construction.
Of the 49 homes planned, 17 will be affordable, and the development will also include car parking spaces and electric vehicle charging points. The site falls within the Somerset Levels and Moors catchment area, requiring mitigation to prevent environmental impact.
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The Planning Inspectorate’s final ruling stated that Horton met the criteria for sustainable development, citing the village’s local services and facilities. The decision acknowledged the need for occupants of the new homes to travel for amenities due to the limited local services and transportation options.
The developer’s commitment to reflecting the existing settlement’s style and providing affordable housing, along with a financial pledge towards local education, factored into the decision. The ruling also emphasized the need to address the housing supply shortfall and the potential boost to the local economy.
This approval comes amid increased interest from housing developers in the area, with several other housing proposals in the pipeline.