Up to two dozen new homes could be built in a small Somerset village if plans are approved by district councillors.

R & K Building Ltd. has published proposals for 24 new homes on Butts Way in Milverton, on agricultural land next to the existing Tuckersmead homes, writes Daniel Mumby, Local Democracy Reporter.

The Wellington-based developer believes it can deliver much-needed affordable housing in the village as well to improving pedestrian access to services in the village.

Somerset West and Taunton Council is expected to make a decision on the plans in early-2023.

The site lies at the western edge of the village, around half a mile from the local primary school and cricket club and to the north of the existing allotments.

A new access road would be created from Butts Way, with 64 car parking spaces being provided on site for the new residents.

Of the 24 homes proposed for the site (the majority of which will have four or more bedrooms), six will be affordable – meeting the council’s target of 25 per cent affordable homes for any development of ten homes or more.

A spokesman for Greenslade Taylor Hunt (representing the developer) said: “The development is within a sustainable location on an allocated site immediately adjoining the settlement of Milverton.

“The development will deliver clear economic, social and environmental benefits.

“It can be delivered without significant adverse impact upon the environment or ecological interests, drainage and flood risk, highway safety, residential amenity, heritage assets, visual or landscape character, or other interests of acknowledged importance to planning.”

The site was not allocated within the council’s Local Plan, but was identified as a possible development site within its more recent strategic housing and employment land availability assessment (SHELAA).

Officers estimated in the SHELAA that the site could deliver a total of 28 homes by 2032, pending planning permission – though it will have to include new footpaths to ensure residents can safely walk along Butts Way to access the village’s amenities.

The council is expected to make a ruling on the plans early in the new year.