"Our project is driven by a heartfelt commitment to make Bembridge a more affordable and inclusive place for everyone", an Isle of Wight housebuilder has said, in response to a protest over plans for a major new development in the village.
Captiva Homes, which is behind proposals for Middleton — a 130 home site — has told the County Press it has spent the last year listening to residents' concerns and has 'refined' its plans to address them.
The location of the proposed scheme, on greenfield land off the corner of Mill Road and the High Street, was identified as suitable for housing by the Isle of Wight Council in 2018.
Hundreds turned out at Steyne Park to protest against the project yesterday (Sunday, July 21).
Read more: "Enough is enough" say protesters over major village housing plan
Campaign group Build a Better Bembridge argues the village does not have the infrastructure to take more homes.
Among the main concerns were traffic, flooding and whether the houses really would be 'affordable'.
Addressing concerns over flooding, Captiva Homes director James Pink said: "One of the key features of our plan is a comprehensive on-site water drainage system.
"This system will ensure that surface water does not enter the combined sewage system.
"Not only does this prevent any additional strain on the existing network, but it also helps increase the capacity of the wider system, as recognised in the recent Statutory Flood Investigation paper."
Captiva believes since the land is already earmarked for development, it should be led by "local people who genuinely care about the Isle of Wight."
(Image: Captiva Homes / IWCP)
Mr Pink's statement said: "Our project is driven by a heartfelt commitment to make Bembridge a more affordable and inclusive place for everyone.
"Bembridge, the largest village on the Isle of Wight, is blessed with wonderful facilities, but it hasn't grown as much as other areas, making it even less accessible."
"Some people argue that development should be denied in affluent communities, but we believe this isn't the best approach for the Island."
Plans include eight different variations of one to three bedroom homes, available for both rent and purchase, Captiva said.
"This wide variety of entry points means more opportunities for local young people and families on the Isle of Wight to call Bembridge home. Additionally, we are implementing a local lettings plan to ensure that affordable housing is prioritised for local people", the statement added.
Middleton will go before the Isle of Wight Council's planning committee on Wednesday, July 30.
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