NEW plans for nearly 100 new homes in a small Somerset village have been submitted following a public consultation.

The Crossman Group asked for residents’ views in August over proposals for a new development planned for the eastern side of the B3167 Perry Street in Tatworth, a stone’s throw from the Devon and Dorset borders.

Following local feedback, formal plans for the new estate have been submitted by the Bath-based developer, with the number of homes being slightly reduced to 97.

South Somerset District Council is expected to make a decision on the proposals by the summer of 2022.

Chard & Ilminster News: Proposed Masterplan For 97 Homes On The B3167 Perry Street In Tatworth. CREDIT: Angus Meek Architects. Free to use for all BBC wire partners.

The site, which is not included in the council’s Local Plan, lies between Perry Street and Factory Lane, not far from the former Chard Junction railway station.

While the initial proposals indicated an access road leading from the northern end of Perry Street, the amended plans instead have the main access being from the south-western corner, near the existing junction with School Lane.

Chard & Ilminster News: The Junction Between School Lane And The B3167 Perry Street In Tatworth. CREDIT: Daniel Mumby. Free to use for all BBC wire partners.

The current bus stop near the School Junction will be moved a few yards down the road, with pedestrian and cycling access being provided at both the northern and southern ends of the site.

Of the new homes, 34 properties will be affordable, with a further five plots being set aside for self-build projects.

A total of 293 car parking spaces and 256 cycle spaces will be provided on-site, along with a community orchard, a children’s play area and public open space at the eastern edge.

A spokesman said: “Tatworth currently has an ageing population, as younger people move away as they are unable to afford a new home.

“The proposed development provides accessible housing for younger people which will help address this age imbalance.

“The new resident population will help to sustain existing services in Tatworth, such as shops, the church and bus services.

“There will also be additional pupils for Tatworth Primary School, which is currently experiencing a declining pupil attendee roll.”

Chard & Ilminster News: Parked Cars And Traffic On The B3167 Perry Street In Tatworth. CREDIT: Daniel Mumby. Free to use for all BBC wire partners.

The council is expected to make a decision on the Perry Street plans by the middle of next year.

A decision is also expected soon on separate plans for a combined total of 48 homes on Fore Street, which were deferred by the council’s area west committee in September.