THE final details in a major scheme for hundreds of homes in Colden Common have fallen into place.

Developers Taylor Wimpey have secured approval for detailed plans to build 169 homes at the former Sandyfields Nurseries site off Main Road.

Kings Gate, as it will be known, will feature one to five-bedroom homes, including 40 per cent affordable housing for social rent and shared ownership.

The new homes will be centred around a large area of public open space which will provide a focal point for the community, while open spaces around the boundary of the development will include a green trim-trail.

Although Taylor Wimpey were granted outline planning permission back in May, they only received reserved planning permission this month.

As part of the plans, the homebuilder will be making financial contributions of more than £1.8 million towards local infrastructure improvements.

Work is set to begin this month and the first plots are due to be released for sale in September 2018, with detailed plans and prices to be revealed at the development launch.

Alex Sciarretta, director for Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties, said: “We are delighted to have received planning permission for this fantastic new development.”

“As a local housebuilder, we are an important contributor to the local communities in which we build our new homes, by bringing investment, new facilities and new employment opportunities to the area and we are looking forward to bringing a wealth of benefits to Colden Common with the launch of our new homes here.”

The details which were awaiting approval included siting, design and external appearance of the buildings, as well as landscaping.

Chairman of Colden Common Parish Council Richard Izard said: “It’s brilliant news for Colden Common. We had to be satisfied as a parish with what we were getting and people have already been making enquiries.

“The affordable housing is spread around the site which is good. There’s a good mix of two, three and four beds as well as one bed flats.”

Councillor Sue Cook, who also represents Colden Common and Twyford, said: “I am more than happy about it, it’s been a long time coming.

“It’s important to thank Richard, the parish council vice-chair Maggie Hill, the clerk Debbie Harding and all the parishioners for working tirelessly to help see it all through.”

“What’s important is the 40 percent affordable housing. Taylor Wimpey have offices in Colden Common so I hope it can become a kind of flagship development.”