News

17/05/2010   New homes for local people in Barton Stacey

Residents have moved into the latest HARAH development at Barton Stacey in the Test Valley.
The scheme of eight houses at Bullington Lane was built especially for local people who would otherwise be priced out of living in the area.

Chris Buchan-Hepburn, development manager for HydeMartlet, says: "This is a very exciting development that meets the needs of local people. Historically many people have been forced to leave rural areas where they have family ties because they simply can't afford the housing, and this can lead to the erosion of communities."

The homes, a mix of two and three-bed houses, have been built on agricultural land previously owned by the Ministry of Defence and are let to residents on an affordable rent basis.

Brian Cowcher, head of housing, health and community at Test Valley Borough Council, says: "Test Valley Borough Council, part of the HARAH partnership, works hard to ensure that the shortage of rural affordable housing is addressed. Affordable housing is a high priority for the borough and the council is delighted to be part of providing these homes for local people."

The new residents were handed their keys at the end of April. One, Miss High (pictured below, right) says: "The house is just wonderful. I love all the details -  there is even a recycling box in the kitchen."

The development was designed to complement the pretty conservation village with special attention paid to materials and landscaping and to ensure that construction met both EcoHomes 'very good' and Secure by Design ratings.