The official launch of the £12 million project marks a significant milestone for the Council which is embarking on its first house-building programme in more than 20 years and was attended by representatives from the Council, Knightstone and the contractors.
The Council is investing approximately £7 million in constructing 60 new homes while Knightstone is building 32 homes at a cost of £4 million.
The development represents a significant increase in better quality affordable homes that are cheaper to run thanks to high construction standards. There will also be a play area for everyone to enjoy.
The scheme also includes two blocks of flats for the active elderly , which will be a combination of one and two bedroom, the blocks will contain a lift and a communal lounge for residents.
Cllr Jean Adkins, who holds the housing services portfolio, said: “I am used to wearing a hard hat from the days when I sold new homes, but I am so excited to wear one now that I am partly responsible for building the first Council houses in Taunton Deane for so many years. It is a great privilege.”
Mike Day, Director of Development and Homeownership at Knightstone, added: “We’re pleased to be working with Taunton Deane Borough Council at Creechbarrow Road, helping them to complete their first development in over 20 years. It’s an exciting time!
We’ve worked closely with the Council for 40 years and are confident that this new development will provide residents with affordable homes built to a high standard.”
The Council is able to build its own houses due to reforms in the way council housing is financed. In the past the authority had to hand some of its rental income to Government.
But a change in the system means the Council can now keep the total income, releasing money for new-build schemes as well as ensuring existing homes are kept in good repair.