21 January 2013
Posted in
THE NEWS -
BRIDPORT NEWS & VIEWS
THIRTY NEW AFFORDABLE SUSTAINABLE HOMES FOR BRIDPORT
Bridport Cohousing is a group of local people working together to create more affordable, sustainable homes in Bridport for local people. They have now announced proposals to build 30 homes plus shared facilities on part of the field just West of Bridport Hospital. The plans were announced with public consultations for local residents in Allington on January 18, and for the general public in Bucky Doo Square on January 19.
Charles Couzens, one of the professional advisors, said, “We looked at several possible sites before the residents group chose this one. Our reasons for proposing this site include offering shared facilities which can benefit the whole Allington community, enough space to grow food on site, easy access by bus, foot and bike from central Bridport, and a price for the land which means that all the homes will be affordable”.
The 30 homes will range in size from 1-bed flats to 4-bed houses, with a range of tenure types, all affordable. The developer partner is Synergy Housing Group, the largest housing association in Dorset, who will provide 8 affordable rent and 4 shared ownership homes as part of the scheme. Shared facilities will include a hall for social events, shared meals and meetings, plus workspaces, a 1-acre community allotment, and children’s play area. These facilities will also be available for use by the surrounding community.
Bridport Cohousing aims to create a neighbourhood which is affordable, sustainable and mutually supportive. Ways to achieve this include building eco-homes with high insulation levels, growing food on site, shared transport facilities (eg a pool car), and limits on private car ownership. The project builds on the success of the award-winning Threshold cohousing project in Gillingham, North Dorset.
Lucy Rowland, a community nurse in Bridport, who is one of the potential residents, said, “I like the shared meals and activities in cohousing. By working together, for example in the shared market garden, we can develop friendships and create a supportive network for old and young alike, so that we can all live together in a safe and happy neighbourhood, which is also of service to the wider community in Bridport”.
There are still some homes available, and the residents group welcomes new members. For more information, see www.bridportcohousing.org.uk or contact Rose Harris on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 01308 424863.
