PLANS which could lead to more than 20 new houses near Newport in Barnstaple have been warmly received by residents.

Power company National Grid announced last week that it was planning to carry out environmental improvement work at the old gas works site near Barbican Close in order to make the land suitable for a housing development.

A ROOM WITH A VIEW: David Morrish looks out over the former gasworks site. Picture: Rob Tibbles Ref 1007-153_01
SITE: About 20 houses are planned for the area. Picture: Ref No 1007-153_06
AS THEY USED TO BE: An aerial photo of Barnstaple taken in 1950, which shows the gasworks. Picture: ©Airphotos 01934 741836

The former works unit was founded in the Victorian era and produced gas from oil and coal until its closure in the early 1970s.

The proposed development forms part of National Grid's programme to bring land back into beneficial use for local communities.

The firm will submit two planning applications to North Devon Council in the coming weeks.

One for the environmental works, which will involve the removal of underground materials, the demolition of old buildings and soil treatment, and another outlining proposals for 20 new houses.

The firm held a public exhibition to display the plans at the Holy Trinity Church hall on Tuesday, July 20 where residents were invited to leave feedback.

Kirsty Anderson, community relations officer for National Grid, said: "If planning permission is granted we hope to sell the land to a housing developer.

"We believe there is space at the site for around 20 houses of two, three and four bedrooms, as well as ample room for car parking spaces.

"Provided there are no problems the houses could be finished by the end of next year."

David Morrish, 80, has lived next to the gas works on Chester Terrace for the past 14 years.

He said: "As a boy I used to walk past the old gas works on my way to school, it smelt absolutely terrible. I'm happy someone's finally doing something with the site. It's been empty for years and could do with a good clean up.

"The site is ripe for development and I think it will improve the area."

Christopher Allwood, who lives opposite the site at Barbican Terrace, said: "I think it's a great idea to put the site to use but I think the downside will be the increase in traffic.

"I also think that 20 houses might be an underestimation, most developers would try to push for more.

"However, the site is tucked away so I don't think it would bother many people. Anything that helps lift this area can only be a good thing."

John Kershaw lives at the old nurseries. His garden backs onto the old gas works.

He said: "I hope the houses aren't too tall and overlook our property.

"I'm happy to see the land used but I hope residents are looked after."