VILLAGERS in Milverton are celebrating after controversial proposals for 70 homes were blocked by planners.

But the developers say they might now build a number of bungalows and other housing approved on the green field site at Creedwell Orchard in the 1970s.

Taunton Deane Council’s planning committee turned down the planning application from developer Notaro last night, Wednesday, October 14, following a report from officers recommending the scheme should be refused.

Although one councillor warned that turning down the current application could result in a worse one being built, none of the members voted in favour of the scheme.

Notaro, which claims the application was a “sympathetic blend” of houses and parking spaces, along with a play area and a donation of £150,000 for social housing, is now looking at returning to its 1970s proposals, although villagers hotly contest their validity.

The Save Milverton Action Group argued the scheme should be turned down because no affordable housing is being offered, the land is not included for development in the structural plan and that the scheme is far too big for a village the size of Milverton.

They claim it would ruin the character of the heritage village and cause traffic problems.