THE joint-landowners of a 200-acre site planned for thousands of new homes in Burnham-on-Sea have said they are 'committed' to working with locals to the area.

The owners of the site hope to use it to provide over 2,000 new homes, as well as accompanying schools, infrastructure and improved flood defences.

The proposed site of the town expansion is located just six miles from the planned electric vehicle battery giga-factory in Woolavington, known as Gravity, which could create over 7,500 new jobs, according to the Salamanca Group who acquired the site in 2017.

The group of 12 landowners represented by Taunton-based agents Greenslade Taylor Hunt, have selected Barratt Bristol to bring forward their long term plans that aim to deliver the homes (with a significant amount to be affordable) on land south of Brent Road, Burnham.

A key part of the plans is a potential road to serve not only the development, but that could act as a local bypass, allowing holidaymakers driving to and from Brean in the tourist season to avoid the congested and narrow roads in the centre of Burnham.

A spokesperson for Barratt Homes revealed that well as the new homes, the plans include a primary school, community facilities, and extensive and accessible communal green spaces.

Managing Director of Barratt Homes Bristol division, Rob Hart, said: “It is a real privilege to have been chosen to bring forward plans that will not only deliver new homes but will also result in a major investment in the future of Burnham.”

“We take this responsibility seriously and are committed to working with local residents, businesses and groups in the years to come to build a vision for the site that delivers for Burnham.”

“Residents may see people on-site undertaking surveys over the coming weeks, however, we would like to reassure the community that this is a long-term planning process.

"We are at the beginning of our journey as we bring forward proposals in line with Somerset Council’s Local Plan which itself is in its infancy.

"It will take some years for the site to go through the Plan-making process.

"There will be lots of opportunities for local people to get involved with the new Somerset Local Plan as it moves forward.”