A DEVELOPMENT of affordable community homes is nearing completion - with council representatives recently visiting the site to inspect the progress being made.

Some 15 new homes are being built as part of the community-owned development in Drimpton for families with a connection to the local area to rent.

Property developer’s C.G. Fry are undertaking the construction with housing association Abri overseeing the maintenance and management of the tenancies.

The new homes have been designed and developed by Broadwindsor Group Parish Community Land Trust (BGP CLT) after being established in 2016 to help provide affordable homes.

Councillor Graham Carr-Jones, portfolio holder for housing and community safety, and Andrew Billany, director of housing at Dorset Council recently visited the site - which is expected to be completed by summer  of this year.

Councillor Graham Carr-Jones at Dorset Council said: “We know the importance affordable housing plays in allowing local people to remain local and so I’m delighted to see the progress being made as these homes near completion. Dorset Council is working on several affordable schemes which will help to bolster our vision for thriving communities where everyone has a good quality home.”

The homes are being built with sustainable features including solar panels on all the roofs and air source heat pumps to lower their carbon footprint and reduce energy consumption for residents.

Andrew Billany, Corporate Director of Housing at Dorset Council said: “Our Housing Strategy actively supports the development of affordable housing and these homes are a great example of collaboration and different parties working together for the benefit of the community.”

Sheila Hawkins, Secretary Broadwindsor Group Parish CLT added: “We set up Broadwindsor CLT to respond to the need from local people for affordable homes within the Broadwindsor Group Parish Area. Working together we’ve been able to have an active say in how the homes are designed so they complement the local surroundings and I’m really pleased with how they’re taking shape and can’t wait to see them finished and ready for the community.”

The new development has received funding from Dorset Council, Homes England and Abri to help build the one-bedroom flats, two and three-bedroom houses and two-bedroom bungalows.