More than 850 new homes set to be approved for Bridport

The delayed Foundry Lea development is expected to be finally signed off this week

Author: Trevor Bevins, Local Democracy Reporter Published 14th Jun 2023

More than 850 new homes for Bridport could gain planning approval this week.

The delayed 760-home Foundry Lea development at Vearse Farm is expected to be signed off along with approval for 83 homes in the South West Quadrant at St Michael’s Trading Estate and another nine by the redevelopment of the nearby Lilliput Buildings.

The Foundry Lea development, although approved as an outline scheme in 2017 with further details passed last year, has been held by talks over changes to drainage arrangements, including alterations to three retention ponds.

In the South West Quadrant 48 houses and 35 apartments are being proposed along with some new and refurbished commercial floor space and the demolition of some existing units. The scheme also includes repairs to the flood wall immediately west of the Tower Building.

At the Lilliput Buildings, adjoining 40 St Michael’s Lane, some units will also be demolished, if approved, with others refurbished to provide nine homes, including the upgrading of one existing unit.

All of the scheme have been revised over the years in an attempt by the developers to meet local concerns.

The three schemes will be discussed by the area planning committee meeting in Dorchester on Thursday with recommendations that each be approved, subject to agreements being reached over some conditions.

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