Housebuilder receives approval for Somerset scheme

Summerfield Homes has received approval to construct 26 new homes, including affordable housing, in Middlezoy.

The scheme, accompanied by new access and highway enhancements, will feature a range of one, two, three, and four-bedroom homes.

Some of these homes will be allocated to a local housing association, addressing the need for more affordable housing in the area as highlighted in a 2021 housing needs survey.

In addition to being a Net Zero scheme, each property will incorporate cutting-edge energy-efficient elements, including a renewable energy source, PV solar panels, and water-saving showers.

The development will also include bird and bat boxes, bee bricks, and hedgehog-friendly fencing, promoting local wildlife.

Despite initial rejection by the planning committee, Summerfield Homes secured planning permission on appeal. The application had the backing of planning offices and received no technical objections from highways or other consultees.

Ed Khodabandehloo, managing director at Summerfield Homes, said: “I’m very pleased that the Planning Inspectorate has decided in favour of our appeal. We submitted a policy-compliant application that had no technical objections, full policy support and included ten affordable homes to meet part of a long-standing need for affordable housing identified within the village.

“We are delighted with the outcome and look forward to returning to Middlezoy to build these properties in what is a very desirable Somerset village.”