9 April 2014
Work is underway on a self build project in Devon where local families are working together to build each others’ homes.
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Believed to be the first of its type in the West Country, the scheme of six detached houses – situated in the village of Broadhempston (pictured), near Totnes – will see each built with a structural timber frame and the incorporation of straw bales as insulation. The families are constructing the homes two at a time over a 12 month period and hope that the project – which has taken three years to get to the build stage – will prove to be a useful template for those who are keen to be involved in eco self build and sustainable housing.
The self builders will receive on-site supervision on certain aspects of the build, including plumbing and electrics together with help on other building construction detail. Materials used for the dwellings are designed to ensure that the properties are both ecologically friendly and provide low running costs, with high thermal insulation levels throughout. In addition to this, the inclusion of a sun room means that a conventional central heating system should not be necessary during the winter months.
The local planning authority, Teignbridge District Council, was prepared to give planning permission for the houses, despite the development being outside the village boundary, because they are designed for local people, and are at an ‘affordable’ level. The council imposed conditions in the consent to ensure an allocation policy for occupiers was carefully adhered to.
A Broadhempston Community Land Trust (BCLT) has been formed to oversee the development, and to manage the financing, through a loan provided by Resonance, who provide finance to social enterprises and community led groups. The self builders will be given a long lease on their houses, and then rent to buy over 25 years. They will be given a 25% equity stake for their efforts on the build, with the option of purchasing up to a further 50% during the term. The BCLT will retain 25% of the value, thereby ensuring that the development remains a benefit to the local community.
Participant Serena Bedford said: “My family have lived in this area for 100 years and it’s been heart breaking for us that house prices are too high for us to live here. I want our two boys to grow up in the village I love and now we have finally got a way for that to happen, though it’s been a long and difficult three years to get to this point. We’re all so excited to finally get started.”
BCLT is keen to attract voluntary labour during the 12 month build process, particularly from those who are interested in a starting a similar scheme or who are interested in helping with the project, or those currently studying building construction at college or university, and is asking people to get in touch via email.
