Taunton Deane Borough Council will knock down and rebuild homes in north Taunton

It was announced in September 2017 more than 100 homes in the north Taunton area needed to be improved.

In the Housing Defects Act 1984, Woolaway housing was designated as 'defective' - meaning they would deteriorate in the near future. Woolaway properties are made from concrete columns, beams and panels, and were used post-war as they could be built very quickly.

READ MORE: Regeneration coming to Taunton as "defective" properties are tackled

Taunton Deane Borough Council consulted with residents for a year to find the best solution.

The authority owns around 170 properties, dating back to the 1950s, in Dorchester Road and the surrounding area.

CHANGES: Some of the Woolaway properties in north Taunton

Cllr Terry Beale, executive member for housing services, said: “We really wanted to work with our residents and get them fully involved in shaping their own neighbourhood.

"We have been very impressed with their enthusiasm and commitment. Their feedback will continue to inform the final scheme design.”

It has been decided the 'preferred' option is to 'refurbish' two areas west of Dorchester Road and north of Ludlow Avenue, and to 'completely regenerate' the central area of concern.

The council says houses in the main area would be demolished and replaced with new, energy efficient homes.

It aims to maintain a broad choice of housing options in the area.

The design group reviewed three options before coming to this conclusion. The 'preferred option' was announced during the final consultation event which saw more than 100 residents attend.

Now the proposal has been selected an official planning application will be created. The council predicts the application will be submitted towards the end of the year.

When the project was first announced some residents feared losing their homes and didn't want to go through the ordeal of moving.

READ MORE: REGENERATION PLANS - The Taunton residents 'living in fear' of losing their homes

The council says it will continue to talk with residents about their concerns.

A spokesman said: "The council will continue to work with the residents offering one-to-one conversations as well as the opportunity to drop in and chat at the project office which was established in the centre of the community."