The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) has confirmed that its plans to invest millions of pounds in much needed new and affordable housing in Radstock are still going ahead, following the withdrawal of its preferred partner Bellway.

The national housing and regeneration agency has confirmed it is to invest more than £2.1 million this year in delivering up to 83 new and affordable homes on a disused former railway site in the centre of town.

The investment means the HCA can work with landowner the Norton Radstock Regeneration Company (NRR) to select a preferred developer, agree terms and begin building work as part of a project to deliver more than 200 homes and improve roads around the important site.

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The partners are looking for a new development partner after Bellway confirmed its intention to withdraw from the scheme. A new partner will be selected as soon as possible now that the investment in the site has been agreed.

The site has been earmarked for housing development for a number of years, but had been mothballed due to the effects of the recession.

Colin Molton, HCA director with responsibility for investment in the South West, said: "Our investment signifies a major step forward for the regeneration of Radstock, which has a great need for high quality, affordable housing and is a priority area for us."

"As well as providing new homes and a better road infrastructure, this investment will also provide local job and training opportunities for apprentices, thanks to the work generated by the investment."

(CD/KMcA)