A BID to build affordable homes to rent or buy in Crowcombe could be ditched before the plans even reach the drawing board unless local people in need come forward.

A landowner in the village has already offered a plot of land which could be developed - subject to planning permission - following an appeal by West Somerset Council housing chiefs for potential sites last year.

At the time of the appeal, about 20 people had registered an interest in affordable homes in the area.

But now, despite a recent successful drop-in event on the issue, just two people have confirmed their interest.

Ian Timms, the council's group manager for housing and community, said: "We have written to the others and we are appealing for them, or any resident in housing need in the parish, to come forward.

"Up to six homes could be built on the site but just building two is unlikely to be viable."

Mr Timms added: "This is a once in a generation opportunity and we hope the residents in Crowcombe will make the most of it."

The council has been working with Crowcombe Parish Council for many years to find a site in the area with development potential.

But unless housing need in an area is established, the authority and its partners in the affordable housing group are not able to go ahead with any plans for affordable homes.

Heather Crockford, the council's housing enabler, said: "We really hope that more people will register an interest as it has been a long struggle to find a plot of land with development potential.

"We are always looking for sites across the district with potential, which landowners are prepared to sell at a realistic price."

To register an interest in affordable homes in Crowcombe or across the district, people need to register with the homefinder website at http://www.homefindersomerset.co.uk">www.homefindersomerset.co.uk.

Anyone without internet access can contact the council on 01643 703704, while people looking for affordable homes to buy should apply via the Government appointed South West Homes at http://www.southwesthomes.org.uk">www.southwesthomes.org.uk, tel 0300 100 0021.

Anyone wanting to know more about selling potential development land should contact Heather Crockford on 01643 703704.