A RECENTLY launched website will allow Somerset residents a ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at a major 2,000 homes development in Comeytrowe.
The Taunton development, called Orchard Grove, was given the green light for the first 70 homes earlier this year - and work started on the site in September.
Across the entire development, 35 per cent of the properties will be ‘affordable housing’ and 12 of the first 70 will fall into this category.
The community is set to include a primary school and a park and ride facility.
DEVELOPMENT: First look at the 70 new homes
READ MORE: First look houses on 2,000 homes site in Comeytrowe
READ MORE: Name revealed for 2,000 homes site in Taunton
The website will allow residents to communicate with the housebuilders behind the development - Taylor Wimpey and Vistry Group, which includes Bovis Homes and Linden Homes in a joint venture with LiveWest.
It will also outline the vision and give updates on news and milestones.
NEW: Orchard Grove launches new website
Sue Scholfield, from Vistry Group and the Orchard Grove Consortium, said: “This is such an impressive project and we know people are already curious about what is planned.
“Our new website will help shed light on the vision behind Orchard Grove, how it will take shape over time, and updates on our progress.
“We welcome the opportunity for people to get in touch, so we have opened the lines of communication with a dedicated email and informative website – and we hope this will prove both useful and interesting.”
There will also be an FAQ section and parish councils will have the chance to submit questions to the housebuilders.
But the development hasn’t always received a positive response.
Nearby residents have protested against the scheme, claiming infrastructure in the area will not be able to cope with thousands of new homes.
And in July, residents in Galmington campaigned against the plans, which would have seen a foul pumping station built near to Galmington Stream.
CAMPAIGN: Residents gathered in Galmington to show support for the stream
READ MORE: Changes made to development plans after Taunton residents campaign
The land was cleared for development by the then-council Taunton Deane Borough Council more than a decade ago, and the original planning application was submitted in 2014.
But despite objections, Somerset West and Taunton Council approved the plans, deciding the ‘positives outweigh the negatives’.
STARTING: Work on the Comeytrowe development on the A38
Council officer Ursula Fay said: "This application would deliver housing, including affordable housing, and its positive determination in a timely manner would keep delivery of the ‘additionality’ affordable homes on track.
"Having had regard to the representations of objection and support and the advice of the various consulted parties, it is considered that the benefits of the scheme significantly outweigh the impacts.
"Overall, within the parameters set by the outline consent, the proposal represents sustainable development."
To explore the development, visit www.orchard-grove.com
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