Outline plans have been submitted for the construction of up to 60 new homes in a rapidly expanding Somerset village near the A303. The proposals, put forward by Sparkford II LVA LLP, aim to extend the existing Cherry Blossom View development in Sparkford, which currently comprises 36 properties built by Lovell Homes.
The proposed extension would see the estate road extended southwards, with the new homes centred around local play facilities. Somerset Council is set to make a final decision on the plans by summer's end.
The site, bordered on three sides by existing housing and to the west by the Bristol to Weymouth railway line, will see Cherry Blossom Way extended south past Sparkford Playing Field. A small plot of land has also been earmarked for a future community facility such as a village hall.
To mitigate potential issues, significant landscaping is planned to shield the new homes from the railway line and Ainstey Drive residential area, and an attenuation pond will be installed at the southern edge to reduce flood risk. Of the proposed 60 homes, 21 will be affordable, meeting the council's target of 35% affordable housing for any new development of ten or more homes within the former South Somerset area.
In a bid to prevent any net increase in phosphates on the Somerset Levels and Moors, the developer plans to purchase phosphate credits generated by the fallowing of agricultural land within the River Yeo catchment area.
A spokesperson for Prospect Design Studio, representing the promoter, said: "The scheme responds to the character of the site, retaining and enhancing many of the existing hedgerows and trees found along the boundaries and within the site.
"The design of the proposals has also been influenced by the review of the local context, using this to shape the character proposed for the site.
"The materials and details palette suggested draws on the styles found in the local area.
"The proposals will provide benefits for the local community through the creation of new open spaces and walking routes, and bringing in new residents to support existing local facilities.
"The scheme proposed represents a sustainable development, with many of the dwellings having the potential to include solar panels and other technologies that will reduce their carbon footprint.
"The proposals will provide much needed new homes, creating an attractive place in which to live for many years to come."
Sparkford is anticipated to witness significant development in the forthcoming years, as developers look to capitalise on the recent completion of the A303 dualling scheme between the village and Ilchester.
The council gave the green light for 34 new light industrial units on the A359 High Street in October 2024, with a verdict still awaited on proposals for 45 new homes and a 60-bed care home just south of that site.
A decision regarding the Cherry Blossom View plans is anticipated in the coming months.
