Affordable and open market homes approved

We are pleased to have been granted planning permission to bring forward 170 new homes in the market town of Holsworthy, North Devon, of which 30 per cent will be marked as affordable.

Cavanna Homes will provide almost a quarter of a million pounds in the form of Section 106 community contributions, to fund the expansion of Holsworthy Primary School, increasing its capacity from 315 to 420 pupils, and additional money will help expand early-years education at Holsworthy Pre-School.

In addition to the on-site infrastructure, the development will also contribute funding towards a footpath link between Dobles Lane and the cattle market; a multi-use games area at Stanhope Park, and a pedestrian crossing.

Development Manager, Karen Croker said: “This is a very sustainable location. Holsworthy offers a wide range of services and amenities including shops, pubs, GP surgery and a hospital all within easy walking distance.”

Thirty per cent of the 170 homes will be designated affordable, helping to tackle the district’s acknowledged housing crisis.

Director of Land and Design, Michael Newman said: “As of January this year, there were more than 1,100 households on the housing waiting list in Torridge. That’s almost doubled in just two years.

“By providing 51 affordable properties, alongside 119 open-market homes, we are playing our part as a Devon company in helping more Devon families enjoy the comfort of a secure home.

“Out of the 51 affordable properties, 38 will be available at a social rent and the remaining 13 will be shared ownership.”

Cavanna Homes will be installing air source heat pumps in all properties which provide a low carbon heating alternative to gas. Electric vehicle charging points will also be fitted on selected homes across the site.

Nature as well as people will benefit from the development, with new tree planting of native species, plus features to provide habitats for reptiles, invertebrates, mammals and birds.