Plans to build 95 new homes at a Highbridge housing development site have led to fresh concerns from residents and councillors this week.
A developer plans to transform a vacant site off Highbridge’s Newtown Road – formerly home to Delta Enginering – by building a big new housing site.
Stratton Land Limited has submitted a ‘reserved matters’ application, which was considered at the latest Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge Town Council planning applications meeting.
Councillors raised a numbers of concerns regarding the development, especially inadequate parking and the high density of the planned homes.
Lorna Williams, Deputy Town Clerk, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Several concerns have been raised by councillors and we have asked the developer to come to our next meeting to discuss the proposals in more detail.”
“Councillors are concerned about the lack of parking for visitors – one space has been allocated for each property even though there are many two-dwelling homes planned, so that number would not be enough.”
“Members did say they are pleased to see some bungalows planned for the site, not just flats, but it was felt the current plans will see the land developed into high-density housing.”
The council is also to explore further whether 106 developer funding can be used for flooding controls at the site given its close proximity to the River Brue and the risk of flooding.
Councillors also raised concerns about the lack of infrastructure in Highbridge to support another 95 homes, however they noted “no observations” overall, pending a further discussion when the developer visits a future council meeting.
Local resident Paul Adams expressed concerns about traffic flows to the proposed site. “We are pleased with the overall layout of this development, but we have concerns about the impact the traffic will have on Tyler Way, the entrance to and from this development during the build and thereafter. We already have cars parked both sides of this narrow road – it’s already difficult,” he said.
A resident in nearby Kiln Drive has also submitted an objection, citing concern that the new development will overlook their property.
Sedgemoor District Council will consider the proposals in detail before making a final decision on the application. The full application was previously approved.
