Committee to decide on Ilminster homes

Plans for a 49-home development in Ilminster are set to go before committee next week.Galion Ltd is behind the application, which concerns a site to the north of Broadway Hill.Proposed are 49 homes and the formation of vehicular access off Broadway Hill.The scheme would comprise 17 affordable housing units and 32 open market properties, as well as public open space, 159 parking spaces and 49 EV charging points.The plans have been subject to two public consultations, while 105 have been received. Of this total, 104 object and one is neutral.A planning report drawn up ahead of Somerset Council’s planning committee meeting on 23 May noted the lack of community support “conflicts with one aspect of Local Plan policy SS2″.”However, this part of Policy SS2 was dismissed as being a relevant factor by planning appeal decisions soon after adoption given that popularity is not of itself a material consideration.”Notwithstanding the above, the provision of 49 new dwellings, including 17 affordable units, would represent a positive contribution towards the current housing shortfall and is considered a substantial benefit.”