A PLANNING inspector has given the go-ahead for up to 71 homes to be built on land off Hopcott Road in Minehead, but said she recognised local people would be "disappointed" by the decision.

Joanne Jones said she was aware of the strength of local opposition to the outline proposals put forward by developer the Williams Partnership.

But there were no grounds to refuse the appeal, which had been lodged after West Somerset Council failed to reach a decision on whether to grant outline planning permission for the site.

"There is no doubt that there is strong local feeling about this proposal, as reflected by the volume of objections received at every stage and the vocal opposition demonstrated at the hearing itself," she said.

"I recognise this decision will be disappointing for local residents and am mindful, in this regard, of the Government's localism agenda.

"However, even under localism, the views of local residents, very important though they are, must be balanced against other considerations."

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