Work is set to start on the 760-house Foundry Lea development in Bridport, following final planning permission being granted by Dorset Council.

The controversial development has attracted some objections from residents, including the potential impact on local infrastructure and the environment, and safety concerns surrounding the A35 and Miles Cross junction.

Developers Barratt David Wilson and Countryside Partnerships said they are keen to work with the local community and keep residents informed on their progress.

They have offered the following update:

As two of the UK's leading housebuilders, we have been given the go ahead for our detailed plans for 760 new homes including 35% affordable, after the site received initial outline consent in 2021. As the development progresses, we will be keeping the community fully up-to-date.

The plan ahead

We plan to commence construction work on-site in autumn/winter 2023. Ahead of this, residents may see preparatory work being carried out on site.

We are conscious that residents are concerned at the potential for disruption when work starts at Foundry Lea. We are in discussion with Dorset Council over how the construction process will be managed and will shortly be submitting a Construction and Environment Management Plan, setting out key details including working hours, routes to site for work vehicles, and how we will minimise the impact of construction where possible.

Community benefits for decades to come

In agreement with Dorset Council, we have made a substantial commitment of over £6million to support and upgrade community infrastructure and services through Section 106 funding.

This will provide real benefits for the community, including a new local primary school, sports pitches, a care home, and additional facilities at Bridport Medical Centre.

At Foundry Lea, we are committed to the community for the long-term and our investment will make a real difference for generations to come.

A significant economic boost

Supporting the local economy, Foundry Lea will use local suppliers, craftspeople, and tradespeople in the delivery of the new community. The development will also include a Skills Academy, an on-site learning environment for local people to develop practical skills in construction.

The partnership aims to tackle the UK's housing shortage by training the next generation of construction workers. Foundry Lea represents one of the biggest economic boosts for Bridport in many years.

Keeping in touch

Ahead of work commencing in the coming months, we will be issuing the first in a series of newsletters to residents and businesses in the area.

These newsletters will be the first port of call for information about the project, including details on the development, how we will look to minimise disruption during construction, and ways to get in touch with the project team.

We remain committed to engaging with the community throughout the construction process and beyond and will continue discussions with Bridport Town Council and Symondsbury Parish Council regarding a range of matters.