The final affordable homes at the prominent Killams Park housing estate in Taunton have officially been handed over, making them available to local residents. Developed by Taunton-based Summerfield Homes, the estate comprises a total of 320 homes located on Killams Drive, at the southern edge of Somerset’s county town.
Out of these, 60 homes are offered below the market rate through shared ownership or as social and affordable rent options. Additionally, 26 homes have been sold under Summerfield’s MyHomes scheme at a 30% discount on market value.
The last four shared ownership properties have now been transferred to Abri housing association. These homes will be allocated to individuals with a Taunton connection via the council’s Homefinder Somerset system. Shared ownership helps buyers purchase a portion of a home—between 10% and 75%—while paying reduced rent on the remaining share.
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Each of the newly handed-over homes features a modern open-plan living and dining area with a shaker-style fitted kitchen, including appliances. Upstairs, there are two comfortable bedrooms and a contemporary bathroom.
Nick Birch, Commercial Divisional Director at Summerfield Homes, expressed pride in completing the development: “We are pleased to have handed over the last four shared ownership properties to Abri, supporting more people in getting onto or advancing up the property ladder.”
The Killams Park estate offers a variety of housing options, from bungalows and one-bedroom flats to five-bedroom houses. Summerfield Homes has also enhanced the environment by planting nearly 1,200 trees and creating wildflower meadows connected by public footpaths and cycleways.
Ben Richards, Senior Development Manager at Abri, highlighted the partnership’s commitment: “We are dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable homes that meet the needs of our communities, helping local people access home ownership with energy-efficient, well-designed properties.”
Recent improvements to the Warwick House Medical Centre on Upper Holway Road by NHS Somerset and Symphony Healthcare Services have made it easier for Killams Park residents to access a broader range of healthcare services.
Andy Brown of Randall Simmonds LLP, who worked alongside Summerfield Homes on the final properties, praised the developer’s quality and organization: “Summerfield’s attention to quality and well-structured delivery is evident in these exceptional houses. Congratulations to Nick and the team.”
Looking ahead, Abri is set to begin construction on 100 new affordable homes on Somerton Road in Huish Episcopi following revised planning permission. Plans for an additional 27 homes at Foxes Run in Castle Cary are also pending, subject to legal challenges.