A SMALL Somerset village could expand even faster than expected under new plans for additional housing.
Henstridge lies in the heart of the Blackmore Vale, a short distance from the Dorset border and on the key A30, roughly halfway between Sherborne and Shaftesbury.
David Wilson Homes is in the early stages of delivering the Townsend Landings housing estate, which will eventually comprise 130 new homes on Woodhayes Way.
Macra Ltd. has now applied to build a further 52 homes on the other side of the A357 Stalbridge Road – with Somerset Council expected to making a decision by the end of the year.
The proposed development lies behind Townsend Farm on the eastern side of the main road, before it narrows to a passing point near Townsend Cottage.
Access will be from Stalbridge Road, with two pedestrian access points being provided onto Southmead Road and The Mead.
Macra – which is based in Chandler’s Ford in Hampshire – will provide 140 car parking spaces within the new development, which will include 12 affordable rent and six social rent properties.
A spokesman for Pegasus Planning (representing the applicant) said: “Our vision is to create an attractive settlement extension which complements the existing form and character of Henstridge, and links up existing parcels of development for a more cohesive village form.
“Strengthening the gateway to the village was an essential part of the design. By respecting the existing building line, this continuation of development blends seamlessly into the village and creates an effective gateway.
“Moreover, the use of an entrance green space reflects the semi-rural appearance of the south Somerset surroundings by providing visual links to green spaces, and the fields beyond, in between buildings.
“Overall, the proposed scheme will be well integrated with the surrounding residential area and will deliver a sustainable development.”
Abbas and Templecombe Parish Council – which represents the neighbouring parish to the north – has objected to the plans, citing the “size, scale of development proposed, additional vehicles that would be generated accessing a fairly narrow section of the A357”.
Somerset Council is expected to make a final ruling on the outline plans before Christmas.
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