The official start of construction at Poets Garden, a new 58-home development in Nether Stowey, has started, with a groundbreaking ceremony attended by project partners.
Homes in Somerset is working in partnership with Tilia Homes – part of the untypical group – to deliver the development, which takes its name from the village’s rich literary heritage. Nether Stowey was home to Samuel Taylor Coleridge and is widely recognised as the place where he and William Wordsworth developed the influential collection Lyrical Ballads.
Following planning approval from Somerset Council in June 2024, work is now underway to deliver a mix of homes designed to meet a range of local housing needs. Of the 58 homes, 23 will be affordable properties, representing almost 40% of the development and helping more people and families remain within, or move to, this sought-after part of Somerset.
Alex Williams, Housing Development Project Officer at Homes in Somerset, who attended the groundbreaking ceremony, said: “We’re excited to mark the start of construction for these much-needed homes at Poets Garden, Nether Stowey.
“Homes in Somerset, together with Somerset Council and contractor Tilia Homes, are committed to delivering high-quality, energy-efficient properties that reflect local affordable housing need and help strengthen the community.
“This project stands as a fantastic example of collaboration and our shared ambition to provide homes that truly make a difference for local people.”
Every home at Poets Garden will be equipped with air source heat pumps and dedicated EV charging points, helping residents reduce energy consumption and supporting the transition to low-carbon living.
The development will also deliver significant environmental enhancements, including new planting along the eastern boundary, ornamental and herbaceous planting, and areas of wildflower grassland to support local pollinators.
Wildlife-friendly features have been incorporated throughout the site, including integrated bird boxes for species such as swifts and house sparrows. Additional measures, including bug hotels, bee bricks and wildlife-sensitive lighting will help support bats, bees and hedgehogs across the site.
Ross Faragher, Regional Managing Director for untypical’s Western Region, said:”It’s incredibly rewarding to see work get underway at Poets Garden. We’re proud to be taking this positive step in addressing local housing need, delivering a significant proportion of affordable homes alongside high-quality, energy-efficient properties for local residents.
“Modern housebuilding can, and must, work in harmony with the local environment. By integrating low-carbon technology alongside a comprehensive biodiversity strategy, we’re creating a sustainable, nature-rich community that will benefit both residents and local wildlife.
“As work progresses, we remain committed to being considerate neighbours and maintaining open communication with the local community throughout construction.”