LOCAL primary schools and pre-school groups will be the main beneficiaries of £750,000 of community contributions from the builders of a new 139-house development in Watchet, it was announced this week.

Edenstone Homes, whose Underwood Gardens development is taking shape on land south of Doniford Road and Normandy Avenue, will also provide funding ‘to encourage sustainable transport’.

The controversial development was originally opposed by Williton and Watchet councillors and by more than 30 local residents.

An Edenstone spokesperson said the development was a rare opportunity to own a new-build bungalow and the estate would also offer ‘spacious family homes’.

Two and three-bedroom bungalows will account for 26 of the 90 private-sale properties being built.

Edenstone operations director Chris Edge said: “Bungalows are now the rarest of new builds but they will account for more than a fifth of our private sales.”

Affordable housing, which will account for 35 per cent of the development, will include one and two-bedroom apartments and two-bedroomed coach houses, plus two, three, and four-bedroom homes available for intermediate and social rent.

The spokesperson said: “The homes under construction will enjoy a stunning setting, with views of the Quantock Hills, open fields where horses graze, and with steam trains passing by.

“Behind their traditional exteriors, inside the homes will be bright and modern with a high specification and a host of energy efficient features.

“Prices will be announced at the launch.

“The new neighbourhood will enjoy a leafy setting with homes set along tree-lined streets, with green corridors to support local wildlife.

“Along with new homes, Edenstone will be creating a village green, a hilltop park with play area, community orchard, and seating areas looking toward the Quantock Hills and the Severn Estuary.

“Most homes will include electric vehicle charging points, supporting more sustainable living.”