A major housing development and a new takeaway are set to be built in Cotford St. Luke, a small village in Somerset. The development, which includes 80 new homes, has recently undergone a revision and is now subject to public consultation. Lovell Homes, the developer behind the project, intends to commence construction by the summer of 2025, pending approval from Somerset Council.
The new homes, ranging from two to four bedrooms, will incorporate 20 affordable units in adherence to the council’s housing policy. Each property will be equipped with air source heat pumps, and the entire development will be gas-free to comply with environmental regulations. To promote biodiversity, the site will undergo enhancements to support local plant and wildlife populations.
While the development aims to contribute to the area’s housing needs, it has faced objections from local residents. Concerns have been raised about the potential strain on local infrastructure, including traffic congestion on narrow roads and the lack of provisions for cyclists and pedestrians. The impact on community activities and the potential for increased crime due to limited facilities for younger residents have also been highlighted.
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In addition to the current proposal, further plans for an additional 80 homes and new allotments in the vicinity are being considered. If approved, these homes would extend beyond the initial development, complemented by proposed orchards along the northern edge.
Despite the objections, a spokesperson for Lovell Homes emphasized the development’s high quality and its potential to strengthen Cotford St. Luke as a sustainable settlement.
In response to the concerns, Somerset Council had previously commissioned a study on sustainable transport options and new cycling routes connecting nearby villages. The council revealed the potential cost of these routes and is expected to rule on the housing plans in the near future.