Affordable Homes to Rent
By far the greatest need for affordable housing within West Somerset is for homes to rent. West Somerset is a partner of the Homefinder Somerset scheme. Applicants needs are assessed and they are banded either Gold, Silver or Bronze. Properties are advertised on a weekly basis and applicants must 'bid' for properties they would like to be considered for. Bidding will be restricted depending on household size and adaptions to property etc to ensure that best use is made of available stock. Some properties may also be restricted to applicants with a local connection.
If you would like to apply for affordable housing to rent this can be done online. Alternatively you can request a form from the Council's Customer Services staff at the Council Offices, Killick Way, Williton; the Customer Centre, Summerland Road, Minehead, or by telephoning 01643 703704.
If you require any advice or general assistance with affordable housing to rent you should contact Philip Maddocks in the first instance.
Recent Completions
During 2009/10 the Council, in partnership with development partners Falcon Rural Housing Association, Summerfield Homes, Magna West Somerset Housing and a number of Private Developers delivered 42 new homes to rent. Schemes were delivered in Exford, Watchet, Alcombe and Stogursey.
Future Schemes
West Somerset Council maintains a Development Register to monitor the delivery of affordable housing and aims to maintain a three year delivery programme.
Delivery during 2010/11 is likely to be affected by both the lack of Government Grant available to develop new homes and the general financial climate, however, 6 homes have already been delivered by Magna West Somerset Housing Association in Williton and the following are also expected as a minimum:
- 4 homes in Stogumber in partnership with Magna West Somerset Housing Association.
- 4 homes in Cutcombe in partnership with Magna West Somerset Housing Association.
It had been hoped that schemes would aalso be delivered this year in Dulverton and Watchet, however subject to Grant being available, the schemes should be well progressed by March 2011.