Up to 24 new homes are proposed for a small Somerset village near the A303, pending approval, though none will be designated as affordable housing.
Ilton, a village located just north of the A303 dual carriageway and a short drive from Ilminster and the A358 towards Taunton and the M5, has seen development progress recently. In April 2023, West of England Developments (Taunton) Ltd. received planning permission for 15 new homes south of St. Peter’s Close. This development, known as St Katherine’s Close, has since been completed.
Now, Otter Construct Ltd, based near Taunton, has submitted plans for an additional 24 homes on land immediately east of the existing estate. Somerset Council is expected to decide on the application by Christmas.
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Access to the new homes would extend from the northern end of St Peter’s Close, creating a new main road through the estate. Hedgerows and fencing along Rod Lane on the southern boundary will remain intact to preserve screening from the surrounding countryside at the village’s eastern edge.
The proposed housing mix includes two-bedroom bungalows and four-bedroom family houses, with a total of 75 parking spaces for residents.
Due to financial viability constraints, none of the new homes will be sold at below-market rates. A spokesperson for Polden Planning, representing the applicant, emphasized that the development suits the rural character of Ilton and addresses a significant local housing shortfall without compromising viability.
Funding from the project will support community facilities, including contributions of over £66,000 toward public open spaces, approximately £14,000 for NHS services, and around £150,000 to the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). These funds help finance essential infrastructure like roads and schools.
Because Ilton is part of the River Parrett catchment, environmental requirements apply to prevent increased phosphate pollution on the Somerset Levels and Moors. To comply, the developer plans to invest roughly £373,000 in phosphate credits, which are generated through fallowing farmland within the same water catchment.
Somerset Council’s decision process, expected by Christmas, could involve either a public planning committee review or determination by planning officers under delegated authority.