A NEW development in Carhampton which could see the build of 35 new properties was being discussed by West Somerset Council at a planning committee today.

But residents fear the site will open up dangers to new families living there.

Hastoe Housing Association has applied for planning permission to build 25 homes and to convert a barn into a further ten properties on Townsend Farm Site, owned by West Somerset Council.

Robert Aspray, regional head of development at Hastoe Housing said: “Twenty of the homes will be affordable homes. Sixteen of those will be for rent, discounted for local people.”

If planning is permitted, Hastoe hope to start work by the end of October/beginning of November.

While the development has the general support of Carhampton Parish Council, 18 letters of objection have been lodged.

Jean Armin, clerk to Carhampton Parish Council said the main concern was about the safety of pedestrians getting to their homes and the lack of nearby bus stops.

She said: “The parish council has always supported the principle of the development but we do think there are things that haven’t been adequately addressed.

“There is no pavement between the new developments into the village so we have safety concerns.”

Residents also expressed similar concerns. Faye Barringer-Capp, of Carhampton, told the County Gazette her objections didn’t lie with the housing but with a lack of consideration for other factors.

She said: “I’m in favour of the affordable housing. I think it’s a wonderful thing but myself and many of my neighbours feel that the authorities haven’t thought the build properly through.

“The site is going to be home to families which will mean children.

“There is no pavement there and no provisions for a pavement which means they’ll have to walk on the A39 which is very dangerous or down Winsors Lane which is very narrow. Someone could easily get hurt or killed.”

Faye also said the lane was liable to flooding and plans for diverting the water could see her own and neighbours’ homes flooding.

Mrs Barringer-Capp added: “Our concerns haven’t been listened to and it seems like West Somerset Council are building housing at any cost.”