Somerset is set to welcome 23 new council houses in the expanding village of Nether Stowey as part of a major housing initiative aimed at providing affordable homes for local people.
Strongvox Homes recently completed the Cricketers Farm estate, a development of 109 homes located north of the A39 in Nether Stowey, situated between Bridgwater and Williton on the eastern edge of the scenic Quantock Hills. Building on this progress, planning permission was granted in June 2024 to add a further 58 homes to the north of the existing estate.
To deliver 23 of these homes as council housing, Somerset Council has agreed a £3.4 million contract with Tilia Homes Ltd. These new council houses will be offered at social rent exclusively to local residents, reinforcing the council’s commitment to providing affordable housing across the county.
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This project is part of a wider council housing programme, formally approved as part of Somerset Council’s annual budget in March 2024. The programme also supports ongoing initiatives such as the North Taunton Woolaway regeneration and the construction of nine council homes at the Grove estate in Charlton Adam within a broader 35-home development.
Tilia Homes, a subsidiary of Untypical, will be responsible for all 58 homes in this phase. Untypical plans to deliver a total of 338 new homes across Somerset in the upcoming years, contributing significantly to the region’s housing supply.
The funding for these council homes will come from council borrowing, right to buy receipts, and a partial contribution from EDF’s Hinkley Point C mitigation fund. While the contract is valued at £3.4 million, Somerset Council has allocated a budget of £3,756,745 within its housing revenue account capital budget to cover potential cost increases or construction delays.
Shane Smith, housing development specialist at Homes in Somerset, emphasized the importance of the scheme: “These council homes will increase Somerset Council’s stock and contribute to the regeneration of Nether Stowey, bringing much-needed investment to this rural area. The project aligns with government goals to increase affordable housing, reduce homelessness, and foster sustainable and inclusive communities.”
The 23 new homes will include 15 one-bedroom flats, four three-bedroom houses, and four four-bedroom houses. All properties are expected to be completed by early 2028 and will be allocated to local residents via the Homefinder website.
Mr. Smith highlighted the local impact of the new homes, noting: “The area has experienced housing pressures linked to the Hinkley Point C development, which has driven up rental prices and reduced availability in the rented sector. Providing homes at social rent ensures affordability, supports those vulnerable to housing insecurity, and helps maintain vibrant rural communities.”
This investment underscores Somerset Council’s dedication to creating energy-efficient, high-quality homes that meet the needs of current and future residents while supporting economic growth and community wellbeing in the region.