THE housing firm behind the Broad Blunsdon Heights development has contributed more than £364,000 towards the local community.

As part of its Section 106 development requirements, Newland Homes hopes the cash will benefit the local community through schools, public amenities, public health contributions and public realm contributions.

The funds are being passed to Swindon Borough Council who will deliver a range of services to benefit Swindon as a whole, as well as the area surrounding the Broad Blunsdon development.

Gail Remnant, associate sales director for Newland Homes, said: “Whilst Section 106 agreements are a standard part of planning agreements, we have worked closely with the relevant authorities to channel the contributions into areas that will bring the most benefits to all residents of Blunsdon.

“Broad Blunsdon Heights offers the best of modern design incorporating features that house hunters tell us they want in their new homes. With easy access to the A419 and Blunsdon village there is something to appeal to everyone here.”

A Section 106 requirement is a piece of government legislation which states that developers should positively seek to meet the social needs of their area.

More than £43,000 will be provided to support primary and secondary special educational needs education as well as learning for those aged 16 to 18 years.

The public sector will also benefit from over £179,000 being earmarked for public landscaping, open space and improvements to Ermin Street.

Around £75,000 will support Wiltshire Fire and Rescue, public library provision, public art, public games areas and other community requirements. £48,000 has also been earmarked for health and social services contributions, with the remaining money being spent to enable these changes and improvements to happen.

Chris Parker, marketing manager at Newland Homes, said: “This is part of our requirement to work with the council to meet the needs of new residents and the existing local community.

"It is not inconceivable for people to think that any new or enhanced community facilities are always funded via taxes, when the funding provision often comes from developments like ours.

“We are delighted to contribute to the local community and ultimately provide a legacy of quality new development for people to enjoy for many years to come.”

Broad Blunsdon Heights is a contemporary development of 57 homes together with community allotments within walking distance of the heart of Blunsdon village.

The development involves the erection of three, four and five bedroom homes. Prices currently start at £375,000 for a four bedroom home and it three bedroom properties will be available later in 2017.

The sales office and show home is open daily from 11am until 5pm. For more information visit www.newlandhomes.co.uk or call 01793 278101.