A planned new housing development on the outskirts of Sturminster Newton is to be called Corallian Heights.

Contracts for the land, which has outline planning permission for 114 homes, were exchanged last month.

The land deal with Bellway Wessex is for a 9.5-acre site, located off North Fields and bordering Sturminster Newton United Football Club’s pitch.

Dorset Council approved outline plans in April last year, and Bellway is now preparing to submit a reserved matters application in the coming weeks.

Subject to planning approval, the new development will feature 85 two, three and four-bedroom homes for private sale, alongside 29 affordable one and two-bedroom apartments, and two and three-bedroom houses available for local people through rent or shared ownership.

The 114-home scheme will deliver new housing as part of The Artisan Collection, a bespoke range of house types by Bellway which combine traditional craftsmanship with modern construction techniques.

The housebuilder says it will make significant financial investment in local infrastructure and facilities as part of the plans.

Bellway intends to call the development Corallian Heights, with the name derived to pay homage to the limestone geology from the Jurassic period, which is synonymous with Dorset.

Shaun Pettitt, pictured left, Managing Director, Bellway Wessex, said: “We are planning to deliver a wide selection of different home styles and sizes to meet the needs of house-hunters in this part of Dorset, including families and first time buyers.

“The design of the new homes at the development will reflect the local vernacular of the area, and we will also be providing public open space to complement the existing wooded surrounds to the east of the site.

“This is a sustainable location for new housing, with a range of local facilities within walking distance including Sturminster Leisure Centre close by, as well as schools, shops and services.

“We intend to submit detailed plans in the coming weeks and hope these will be approved so we can begin work later this year.”