Plan to replace 'defective' housing moves forward

The first phase of new homes was completed in April

A major scheme to replace 'defective' concrete council houses has taken another step forward.

Building work has started on a second phase of homes in north Taunton, after the first 46 were completed earlier this year.

The next 53 homes will include flats, bungalows and houses, which are designed to be energy-efficient and accessible.

The overall development will ultimately see 230 new council homes built to replace 180 Woolaway homes which have been demolished in the area.

Woolaway homes are prefabricated using concrete panels and were designated as defective by the government.

The former flats and houses have largely been vacated and most have been demolished

Construction on the overall scheme to replace the properties between Lyngford Lane and Dorchester Road in north Taunton began in 2021 after many years of planning.

It has seen hundreds of residents moved out of their homes which have since been demolished.

This week, a ground-breaking ceremony took place on the site of the second phase of the development.

It is being funded by Homes England, the government's housing and regeneration agency.

This next stage will include 53 homes including 13 flats, four bungalows, and 36 houses.

A ground-breaking event took place for the new phase of houses this week

Somerset Council Liberal Democrat lead member for Communities, Federica Smith Roberts, said the authority is "thrilled" to be starting the next phase of this "important regeneration scheme".

"This high-priority project is replacing previous defective housing with new sustainable homes that will provide comfortable, healthy living and promote well-being and a strong sense of community," she said.

The next phase is being built by Plymouth-based Classic Builders.

Adam Brimacombe, managing director of the firm, said: "We believe sustainable housing is not just a trend, but a necessity for the future.

"Our commitment to sustainable construction practices ensures that these new homes will be energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and built to the highest standards."