New affordable homes go local in the Isle of Wight

Sovereign Housing Association’s building 24 new affordable homes in Shalfleet, on the Isle of Wight. This 100% affordable rural development will build a whole new community at the site, with 13 homes for affordable rent and 11 for shared ownership.

The development at Shalfleet Meadows is part of Sovereign’s goals to build not just homes but communities in this rural area. In an area of high need, Sovereign’s not only built much-needed homes but also considered the wider environment with additional green space and a swale to control surface water.

Working with local company, Stoneham Construction, Shalfleet Meadows (on Burt Close in Shalfleet), also marks a new way of working for Sovereign. Through buying and developing land, the housing association’s been able to take better control of the site and employ more local people in its construction.

Sovereign’s also working closely with the local parish council and village residents to make sure that the development thoroughly meets the needs of the local people.

Construction at Shalfleet Meadows was stopped during lockdown, setting the completion of the site back by a few months. But Sovereign was able to continue shared ownership sales electronically and completed 11 sales during lockdown – helping to get Sovereign ready to restart construction.

Liz Evans, Sovereign’s Project Manager, said, ‘We’ve worked hard at Shalfleet Meadows to get our quality affordable housing right. It’s great to work so closely with local people to help build a new community and enhance the existing one in Shalfleet.’

‘We want to build the right homes in the right places and Shalfleet Meadows is a great example of this. I can’t wait to see residents moving into their new homes here.’

Building at Shalfleet Meadows started in August 2018 and the development will see residents move in around September this year.