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30 November 2007

A scheme to provide more than 100 homes for local people on modest incomes is being planned in Taunton thanks to a three-way partnership.

Taunton Deane Borough CouncilÕs Housing Enabling Team is working with landowners the National Trust and developers Summerfield Homes on a project to build up to 120 homes on a site off Cheddon Road.

And every single property will be marketed to those who could not otherwise afford to step on to the property ladder.

The cost of the homes Ð a mix of one and and two-bedroom properties Ð is expected to start at £69,000 for full owner occupation.

The two-acre site, currently owned by the National Trust, is close to existing facilities including schools and shops and is on a local bus route.

The development would be aimed at single people and couples in Taunton who want to own their own home but cannot afford to pay the full market price.

The developers and the National Trust were brought together by Taunton Deane Borough CouncilÕs Housing Enabling Team who constantly monitor potential affordable housing sites to help meet growing local demand.

There are 4,600 people on the CouncilÕs housing waiting list with some applicants having to wait up to six years for a home to become available.

Residents living near the site have been notified of the potential development and consultations involving the Council, Summerfield Homes and the National Trust will be held early in the New Year to ensure that local people are kept fully informed.

Any development would be subject to the full planning process.

Councillor Hazel Prior-Sankey, Executive Councillor for Housing Services, welcomed the initiative to provide affordable housing.

ÒI would encourage both local people and those who are interested in low cost housing provision from the Taunton area to take part in the consultation in January. The final plans will of course be subject to the due planning process,Ó she said.

Summerfield Homes Director Colin Mattravers said this week the company is committed to helping Taunton Deane provide low cost housing for local people.

He added: ÒThe sellout success of a recent, much smaller scheme near Wellington proves the need for affordable starter homes for owner occupation, quite apart from the 4,600 people on the housing waiting list.

ÒHundreds more people are waiting for the chance to buy their own home and get a start on the first rung of the housing ladder.

ÒSummerfield Developments has a reputation for high quality buildings for office and business parks and more expensive housing throughout the South West. This development will have the same commitment to environmental concerns, quality design and workmanship."

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