Controversial plans to build 117 new homes in Highbridge have this week been given the go-ahead.
Raglan Housing Association applied for permission to build the 3.7 acre development of low-cost houses and flats next to the A38 besides the entrance to the town’s Asda supermarket, as shown on this map.
Despite widespread concern over the soaring number of empty properties in the town, the controversial scheme has been given a green light by Sedgemoor District Council’s planning department this week.
The plans were first reported by Burnham-On-Sea.com last December when they attracted a cool reception from town councillors, who expressed fears about traffic and parking problems, social issues and whether there is a need for more low-cost housing.
Planning officer Rob Morgan gave the scheme the go-ahead this week after considering the opinions of local councillors and other bodies.
Highbridge district councillor Joe Leach told Burnham-On-Sea.com on Thursday evening (September 4th) that he is “disappointed” the scheme has been granted permission.
“We haven’t got the infrastructure in place in Highbridge to support another 117 homes. I would also question whether this type of housing is needed in the town, as opposed to better family housing.”
The scheme is particulalarly sensitive as as total of £100,000 is being given by Sedgemoor District Council to the developers of the site to help with the costs of creating more local affordable housing in the Highbridge area.
RELATED LINKS:
Highbridge homes plan gets cool welcome from town councillors
Highbridge is at a ‘tipping point’ warn town councillors
Planners raise concerns about Highbridge ‘over development’
Developers submit applications to build 210 new homes in Highbridge
