DETAILED plans for the first 100 homes of a 400-property development in Ilminster have been submitted.

Somerset Council has formally granted outline planning permission for a major new residential development by Persimmon Homes, south west of Canal Way.

It comes after the developer finalised a Section 106 agreement for the scheme, and submitted detailed proposals for the first 100 homes.

Following a resolution to grant at committee in January 2024, Persimmon has now secured Outline Planning Permission for up to 400 new homes, and the reserved matters for the first phase has been submitted, made up of 97 dwellings.

The Section 106 agreement – which sees developers make contributions to improve infrastructure to help accommodate new housing – will see nearly £3.5 million of investment in community services and facilities, Persimmon said.

Plans for the Canal Way scheme include enhancing existing hedgerows and trees, introducing further woodland, species-rich meadows, allotments, and an integrated circuit of play areas with pedestrian priority footpaths around the site, the firm added.

Persimmon Homes south west managing director, Daniel Heathcote, said: “Finalising the Section 106 agreement and securing outline consent with Somerset Council marks an important step in bringing forward up to 400 new homes in Ilminster.

“The scheme will be gas-free, helping support the Council’s environmental objectives, while providing much-needed housing for local people, including 35 per cent affordable homes.

“We appreciate the constructive approach taken by the local authority and look forward to progressing the first Reserved Matters phase for 97 homes to begin delivering these plans for local residents.”

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