Beneath the picturesque landscapes of Somerset’s rolling hills lies a growing housing crisis that is forcing many young families and low-income residents to leave the county’s countryside. Despite the idyllic appearance, rural communities are struggling with soaring property prices, limited rental options, and wages that do not keep pace with living costs.
Somerset Council has raised alarms about this troubling trend, emphasizing how the shortage of affordable homes jeopardizes the sustainability of its villages and small towns. Without adequate housing solutions, entire communities risk decline as younger generations are priced out and forced to seek opportunities elsewhere.
In response, the council has intensified efforts to deliver affordable housing, successfully completing 111 affordable homes in rural areas during 2024. The Affordable Housing team is also collaborating closely with housing partners and developers to launch new projects aimed at supporting low-income families, young professionals, and elderly residents.
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Councillor Sarah Wakefield, Somerset Council’s lead member for adults services, housing, and homelessness, stated: “We recognize the crucial need to expand affordable housing options within Somerset’s rural communities. Young working-age residents are particularly vulnerable due to high costs compounded by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Our work is focused on helping these groups access suitable homes.”
However, Councillor Wakefield pointed out that council resources alone are insufficient to meet the demand. “While we have strong partnerships with local housing providers, meaningful progress depends on increased financial backing from central government,” she explained. She also expressed concern that the recent government spending review favored urban development, offering uncertain benefits for rural counties like Somerset.
Several promising projects are currently in the pipeline. In Wheddon Cross, within Exmoor National Park, plans are underway for a development that will offer nine affordable homes, including options for social rent and discounted ownership. Meanwhile, Falcon Rural Housing is preparing to add five social rent homes in West Bagborough, likely fulfilling most of that village’s current housing needs.
In addition, Bishops Lydeard saw the completion of 12 fully wheelchair-adapted homes earlier this year, built by housing association LiveWest with support from Somerset Council. Eight of these properties were specially designed to accommodate residents with learning disabilities, created through a partnership between the council’s Affordable Housing and Adults Services teams.
As Somerset grapples with this rural housing challenge, strong collaboration and sustained investment will be essential to preserving its vibrant rural communities and ensuring that families can continue to call the countryside home.