Pearce Construction is proud to announce the commencement of works on a landmark affordable housing development in South Molton, delivering 40 new energy-efficient homes in partnership with Aster Group and South Molton Community Land Trust (CLT).
A landmark affordable housing development
Located at Spindle Rise, off Nadder Lane, the development will provide 40 affordable homes for social rent, helping address local housing need while ensuring people with strong connections to South Molton can continue to live and work within their community.
The scheme comprises a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes, including four maisonettes, all designed to achieve high standards of energy efficiency and sustainability. Each property will feature air source heat pumps and photovoltaic solar panels, helping residents reduce energy consumption and lower household running costs.
In addition to delivering much-needed homes, the development will provide a range of community and environmental enhancements, including a dedicated play area, football pitch, wildflower meadow, aquatic planting and orchard trees, creating a sustainable and attractive environment for future residents.
Commenting on the start of construction, Nick Hopkins, Housing Director at Pearce Construction, said:
"We are delighted to be working alongside Aster Group, South Molton CLT and the wider project team to bring this important development to life. This scheme represents far more than the delivery of new homes; it is about creating opportunities for local families to remain within their community while providing high-quality, energy-efficient housing that will serve future generations.
At Pearce Construction, we are committed to delivering developments that leave a positive and lasting legacy. Through close collaboration with our partners and stakeholders, we look forward to delivering a scheme that the South Molton community can be proud of."
Creating affordable, secure homes
South Molton CLT was established by local residents with the aim of creating affordable, secure homes for people with a strong connection to the town. The project represents a significant milestone for community-led housing in North Devon and demonstrates the value of strong partnerships between local communities, housing providers and construction specialists.
The development is being delivered through a collaborative partnership involving Aster Group, South Molton CLT, Homes England, North Devon Council, Middlemarch Community Led Housing CIC, Trewin Architects, JRC Consulting Engineers, Pearce Construction and ecologist GE Consulting.
The new homes are forecast for completion by the end of 2027 and are supported through funding from Homes England's Affordable Homes Programme.
As construction progresses, Pearce Construction remains committed to supporting the local economy through engagement with regional suppliers, subcontractors and employment opportunities wherever possible.
Val Schenn of South Molton CLT said:
"Empowering the local community to lead the CLT development process ensures that these new homes will permanently provide secure, long-term sustainable, and energy-efficient homes, with affordable social rents for those on low incomes.
"This particular community-driven approach by the South Molton CLT provides those with a 10-year connection to the town the opportunity to keep close to their family, local jobs, key workers and community support networks, helping to keep the community together.
"It's the first project of its kind for South Molton and we are excited to be paving the way for future projects by the community for the community."