A TOTAL of 14 new council homes are set to be built across the district, it has been revealed.

Sedgemoor District Council has unveiled plans for the new homes, in Bridgwater and Highbridge, in a bid to increase the number of affordable council homes on offer.

The council says the homes will help 'drive economic growth and investment into the district'.

"With the demand for affordable homes on the increase, Sedgemoor District Council is once again building new council owned houses," a spokesperson said.

"The council is investing £1.9m to construct 14 new council homes on two sites – the former Withycutter Public House in Frederick Road in Bridgwater and new flats at Alpha House, in Market Street, Highbridge."

The new properties come as part of the current pipeline of 67 new council homes planned for construction over the next year or so.

The site of the former Withycutter has sat empty and has become an eyesore. The council plans to build six flats and three houses.

At Alpha House, it is planned there will be five one-bedroomed flats, to complement the existing council dwellings already in the building.

"These schemes are excellent examples of how brownfield sites can be redeveloped to provide much-needed affordable housing; it will also regenerate the area for individuals and the wider area," the spokesperson added.

"The 15 homes will be for affordable rent, bringing a renewed vibrancy to both communities."

Schemes already completed include seven council homes at Rosewood Close, Burnham-on-Sea, and 11 rented council homes at Ringstone, West Huntspill.