PLANS for 45 homes in East Huntspill have divided opinion among residents.

Notaro Homes wants to build 45 homes, a new pedestrian crossing, a dog exercise area and allotments on land on Church Road, in East Huntspill.

If the planning application is approved, the houses will be built next to East Huntspill Village Hall and will consist of 18 affordable homes and 27 open market properties.

In the design and access statement, the developer says if approved, it will provide an attractive street scene, additional parking for the village hall, a safer pedestrian crossing from the village hall to East Huntspill Church and will meet local housing needs.

But the plans have divided opinion among residents.

Kay Bennett, from Catherine Street, in East Huntspill, thinks the new homes will help businesses in the village.

She said in a letter to the council: “This village needs more homes of mixed styles; low cost for first time buyers, homes for rent, family homes and bungalows for retirees living in the village.

“All of this would help sustain the existing village shop, the primary school and hopefully bring our full bus service back.”

“The proposed site is in the village and will not cause traffic congestion.

But Hugh Boswell, a Church Road resident, objects to the plans and fears traffic in the area will increase.

“Traffic is already increasing in volume along Church Road, especially if there is a closure or congestion on the M5 motorway and further development would mean increased access for vehicles,” Mr Boswell told the council.

“There is already to be a development on New Road.”, which will provide social housing and private and that development will bring additional traffic into the area.”

Another Church Road resident, Nicolas Claridge, shared Mr Boswell’s concerns and said he has fears current issues with sewage drains in the village will escalate if the development is approved.

“Sewage drains in the village are at a maximum as in certain conditions we get a smell,” Mr Claridge said.

“Adding 45 homes to the mains system will only increase the issue.”

Residents have until March 9 to comment on the application after which a decision will be made by Sedgemoor District Council.