PROGRESS is finally set to be made on a site earmarked for development more than a decade ago.

Plans for the first 70 houses on a 2,000 home development in Comeytrowe have been given the green light.

The huge development, which has been in the works for years, is being delivered by a consortium of developers.

The land was cleared for development by the then-council Taunton Deane Borough Council more than a decade ago, and the original planning application was submitted in 2014.

The latest update has seen the developers gain approval for the first 70 homes in the plan.

The application had received some objections, but the planning authority, Somerset West and Taunton Council has decided the 'positives outweigh the negatives'.

Council officer Ursula Fay said: "This application would deliver housing, including affordable housing, and its positive determination in a timely manner would keep delivery of the ‘additionality’ affordable homes on track.

"Having had regard to the representations of objection and support and the advice of the various consulted parties, it is considered that the benefits of the scheme significantly outweigh the impacts.

"Overall, within the parameters set by the outline consent, the proposal represents sustainable development."

Across the entire site, 35 per cent of the properties will be 'affordable housing'. 12 of the first 70 will be allocated as such.

The proposed dwellings consist of a mixture of detached, semi-detached and terraced properties.

All dwellings have allocated parking as well as cycle storage in shed or garages.

Ian Pugsley, technical director at Taylor Wimpey, part of the Comeytrowe Consortium, said: “We are delighted that Somerset West and Taunton Council planning committee has granted consent for the creation of the first homes on site.

“This outcome is a positive step forward; enabling us to invest in the development and begin this exciting project.

“We look forward to work starting work, as we create a well-designed community that reflects the character of the local area, while also having its own distinct identity.

“Our vision is to deliver high quality new homes and facilities - and we are now another step closer to making this a reality.”