Where will affordable housing for local residents be in built in Dorchester?

Having been to Simons’ latest plans for Charles Street exhibition, I was pleased that their latest plans envisage an increase of apartments to 67 one, two and three bedroom properties.

I then broached the question, will 35 per cent, West Dorset District Council guidelines, be affordable housing?

Sure enough, the stock answer came back, if it is financially viable!

I then reminded Simons’ representative that public finances of between £2million to £4million had been given by WDDC and surely this should answer the financial viability question, but I do not hold out much hope.

Now let’s turn to the Stratton House site.

As reported, WDDC have an offer of a financial contribution in lieu for off site affordable housing so yet again the financial viability question raises its head!

I don’t hold out much hope for this site!

Of course, the Dorchester Prison site will be available when sold.

But as reported, our MP Oliver Letwin says realistically it will be four years before any development takes place.

So again, not much hope.

So where will the houses go? Poundbury? But affordable housing is more expensive there!

Me thinks, when WDDC loses the inspectors enquiry into the Wessex Stadium site, Dorchester’s supply of affordable housing will be built lock, stock and barrel there.

What a kick in the teeth that would be for Dorchester folks!

Barry Thompson, Chairman of the Dorchester and District Labour Party