8.38 As well as making provision for affordable housing it is also important that the right mix of market housing is provided (this is recognised in national policy[1]). The table below shows the possible profile for new market housing in South Somerset taking into account supply and demand for each type and size of dwelling as identified in the Strategic Housing Market Assessment[2]

8.39 This evidence is based on examining the difference between the supply and demand for homes. The report indicates that the proportion of demand for detached houses, semi-detached houses and bungalows is in excess of the supply whereas in the case of terraced houses and flats/maisonettes supply is in excess of demand. The evidence also shows that demand is greatest for 2 and 3 bedroom detached or semi-detached homes. However, there should be a degree of caution exercised when considering evidence of demand as it masks householders aspirations to live in homes larger than those that meet their basic needs. But it does suggest that an approach encouraging more 2 and 3 bedroom semi-detached and detached homes should be taken in the Core Strategy. There may, however, be specific local circumstances where this profile will differ.

8.40 The over arching principle of creating sustainable, inclusive and mixed communities will be applied when negotiating housing mix and tenure on large site applications (10 dwellings or more).