A HOUSEBUILDER is proposing to build more than 300 homes on a plot of land it has bought in a village just outside Taunton.

Crest Nicholson, which has applied for planning permission for the development in Norton Fitzwarren, hopes to be able to start construction next year on a mix of private and affordable properties.

The company has completed on the purchase of the parcel of land at Norton Rise, south west of the village.

As part of the build, Crest Nicholson would complete the construction of Great Western Way on the southern edge of Norton Rise.

It aims to provide strong connections for the site and the village, taking pressure off the B3227 between Taunton and Wiveliscombe.

Mark Foyle, managing director of Crest Nicholson South West, said: “As we continue our commitment to build communities in the South West, we are pleased to have competed the purchase of what will be our Norton Rise development.

"Our experience of building strong communities at our developments can been seen across the South West.

"Norton Rise is well connected, with excellent nearby transport links, local schools and sports facilities that rival other villages.

“We look forward to progressing planning work on the site and to bring more than 300 quality new homes to people of Somerset over the next couple of years.”

Crest Nicholson is currently building Grange Meadows in Cannington, with three, four and five bedroom houses on sale, starting from £265,000.