BUILDING work for 11 new homes in the heart of a North Somerset village has begun – more than a year after plans were approved.

Despite initial concerns from villagers and Wrington Parish Council over flooding, Blue Cedar Homes was given permission back in May 2010 to build retirement cottages in Silver Street.

Objections were raised by many residents as some believed there would be traffic problems and the new development would put pressure on the surrounding flood-prone area.

However, the Environment Agency had no qualms and this week the diggers have arrived and begun work in the area known as Brook Gardens.

North Somerset Councillor and Wrington representative, Deborah Yamanaka, said: “The main concern which I had, and many others in Wrington, was that development of the site could add to flooding problems in Silver Street at times of heavy rain.

“However, North Somerset Council’s drainage expert seems happy with the drainage proposal.”

The homes are for people aged 65 years or over and work is expected to finish in Easter next year.

There will be landscaping, a summerhouse and outdoor seating areas and the properties will be on the market with Wrington’s Debbie Fortune Estate Agents next month.