FIVE new homes could be built on a plot of land in a Somerset village, if plans are approved.

Atelier 17 Ltd, on behalf of Julia Banks and Giles Legg, has applied to Somerset Council for outline permission for up to five dwellings on a site behind Highwoods House, in North Street, Norton-sub-Hamdon.

The 0.43-hectare site is currently vacant, having been used as an equestrian site, the application said.

“There are a number of structures and man-made surfaces on the site, predominantly at the eastern end,” it said.

“These include stables and associated outbuildings, concrete hardstandings and the remains of an outdoor menage.

“These indicate the most recent use of the site as equestrian facilities. Until the recent sale of Highwoods house, the site had a pedestrian access to the residential gardens and was in the same ownership.”

The stables and other buildings would be demolished under the application, with up to five homes built in their place.

An ‘indicative masterplan’ for the site said a development “of this scale is possible while generating a sensitive design approach with a unique character”.

How the five homes culd be laid out on the site in Norton sub Hamdon. Picture: Atelier 17 Ltd/Somerset Council

“In doing so, it can provide all the necessary safeguards for ecology, existing and new amenity and the necessary highways infrastructure within the site,” the plans added.

Access would come from the already established points off North Street.

A letter accompanying the application, from Natalie Hingley, a director of property agent Humberts, backed the plans.

“I know the site well, having recently sold Highwoods House,” it said. “I strongly support the new development as (I) believe there is a need for such family homes in the area.

“I frequently receive enquiries from families in the surrounding areas (for) properties of this size.”

The scheme will now be considered by planners at Somerset Council. For more details, and to comment on the plans, log on to somerset.gov.uk, application reference 23/02859/OUT.