WORK has resumed on a project to build 22 new social rent flats in Wells.

A new contractor has been appointed to deliver the homes at the Vicarage Fields site, which is on the site of a former factory.

The Guinness Partnership has appointed Winsley White Building Contractors and Developers Ltd to recommence construction at the site.

READ MORE: Housing plan near Wells refused over fears of merging with nearby village

The project will see the building of a mix of one- and two-bedroom flats and will also include car parking spaces and a secure bike store for residents.

The developer initially planned to build a care home as well as additional 22 care units as part of the wider Vicarage Fields housing development but has since altered this proposal to provide much-needed social-rent homes.

This alteration came following a delay on a decision to their plans due to needed phosphate mitigation -required by developers to prevent any net increase in phosphates on the Somerset Levels and Moors – with the developer suggesting their previous plans were now unviable.

Grant funding was secured for the building of the development from Homes England.

Ben Cook, development director south at The Guinness Partnership said: “We are pleased to be working with Winsley White for the first time.

“Together we will be providing much needed, affordable housing at this fantastic development.”

Sam Winsley, Director at Winsley White said: “We are excited to get underway on site to complete this scheme for Guinness.

“We look forward to fostering a new and exciting relationship delivering much-needed affordable housing.”

Click here for more planning news from the Somerset Leveller.