West Dorset's Parliamentary Representative lauds eco-homes during inauguration ceremony
Bridport Cohousing's Hazelmead Project Delivers 53 Sustainable Homes
In a significant development for affordable housing in Dorset, Bridport Cohousing is set to deliver 53 sustainable, eco-friendly homes as part of the Hazelmead project. This makes Hazelmead the UK's largest cohousing project to date.
The new homes, powered by a site-wide solar-powered microgrid and using air source heat pumps for hot water, are a testament to the project's commitment to sustainability. The South West-based charitable housing association BCHA is responsible for delivering 39 of these homes, with 26 allocated for social rent and 13 for shared ownership.
The completion of Hazelmead marks the culmination of 15 years of hard work, transforming the vision of Bridport Cohousing into reality, according to Chris Loder, MP. Cllr Jane Somper, Dorset Council's portfolio holder for people - adult social care, health, and housing, expressed her delight at the development, highlighting Bridport's high demand for affordable homes.
Dorset Council provided grant funding towards the land purchase for the Hazelmead project, demonstrating their commitment to adopting a flexible approach and encouraging innovation in affordable housing. Cllr Somper commended the council's flexible approach, which she believes has been instrumental in the project's success.
Residents at Hazelmead are growing fresh, organic food in the site's community gardens, further emphasising the project's commitment to sustainability. The homes themselves have timber frames, a construction method that has been promoted since the Grenfell tragedy due to its lower global emissions.
The development was praised at a recent event attended by MP Chris Loder, Cllr Dave Bolwell, and other stakeholders. Cllr Chris emphasized the importance of the homes at Hazelmead, stating that they are special due to their affordability for locals who might not have had the opportunity otherwise. Reflecting on the Hazelmead development, Cllr Chris noted that it was once a field.
Cllr Jane Somper highlighted the well-designed, high-standard homes built at Hazelmead, and she commended the partners who worked together to develop more affordable homes. Bridport Cohousing is delivering an additional 14 homes for shared equity, further expanding the project's impact on the local community.
Unfortunately, the search results do not provide information about who developed the initial idea for the Hazelmead project. Regardless, the project stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when innovation, sustainability, and community spirit come together.
