Around seventy people attended Curo’s public exhibition last week at Whisty Hall to see the proposals for the redevelopment of land formerly occupied by Walnut Buildings.

Curo says feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 93% of survey respondents stating they support the redevelopment proposals as showcased, while the remainder were unsure.

Feedback so far is showing that locals favoured the layout of the scheme and ‘home zone’ shared space concept for the main road. There was also strong support for the design of the 32 new homes, which will consist of ten 1 bed maisonettes, one 2 bed house and six 3 bed homes for social rent and fourteen 2 bed homes and a 2 bed coachhouse for shared ownership.

Sustainability of the proposed new homes aims to achieve a minimum of 19% reduction in CO2 emissions using energy-efficient building materials, PV solar panels, air source heat pumps and EV charging points. Wildlife-enhancing features such as hedgehog highways and bird/bat/bee boxes were also popular.

Most visitors agreed that the proposals will lead to an improvement in the appearance of the area.

One visitor said: “The houses look as though they will be attractive; it will be a good mix of properties.”

Ward Councillors Bruce Shearn and Chris Dando were also present at the event. Cllr Shearn said: “This is a great opportunity for Curo and our town to regenerate the area in keeping with the wider neighbourhood while providing modern and energy-efficient affordable homes.

“I know that there will be more tweaks and changes to the scheme, not least because of feedback received during this public consultation, but I think Curo’s plans look great and could really transform this part of town for the better. I look forward to seeing the homes built and welcoming new residents over the next couple of years.

Cllr Chris Dando says: “It was great to meet with local residents at the public exhibition last week and hear what they had to say about the proposed redevelopment.

“Curo’s designs show a well-thought-out scheme that could really benefit both existing residents and those families who may live in these new homes in the future.”

North East Somerset MP, Jacob Rees-Mogg also attended. He said: "North East Somerset MP, Jacob Rees-Mogg, has also endorsed the plans. He said: “Curo has clearly listened to residents and is offering attractive, traditional housing that is affordable and in keeping with Radstock’s history.”However, some residents say they are concerned over parking – a garage block currently rented by tenants will be replaced by four new homes. There will be 1.75 spaces per home, say Curo – 39 allocated and 17 for visitors.

Local residents can still view and comment on the proposals at: www.curo-group.co.uk/walnut-buildings by Friday this week, 24th September.

Curo aim to submit the planning application to B&NES Council in the

Autumn, starting in Autumn 2022 if approved, with the first homes ready by Summer 2023. Building work should be complete on site by the end of 2024.