Plans to create a co-housing community of around 30 homes in Bridport, Dorset, are developing positively. A group of potential residents are working closely with Ecos Homes ñ a leading local eco developer and Synergy Housing Group ñ the largest Housing Association in Dorset, UK. The head consultant on the project is Alan Heeks, co-founder of the Threshold Centre, Magdalene Farm and Hazel Hill Wood ñ three well established projects rooted firmly in community and sustainable living.

West Dorset District Council have indicated support, in principle, for the plan and a feasibility study by Ecos Homes is now underway. A search has also be-gun to find a suitable spot. It is intended that the site will be shared with another prospective partner, the award winning Bridport Centre for Local Food. As an expanding community enterprise, they supply 700 freshly prepared lunches to local schools every day.

The project will be offering significant advantages to the community, including new employment opportunities. A high level of social housing would also exist alongside office spaces, studios, meeting rooms for workshops and training, and a large market garden. The site will be served by a Combined Heat and Power plant, shared facilities and waste systems.

The Residents’ Group are now seeking additional active members to join their Steering Group, willing to give up their time and expertise for two to four days per month. They also welcome interest from other
potential residents.

Contact: Derek Fawell
Tel: +44 (0)7949 682492
Website: www​.dorscoh​.org​.uk

Members of the Co-housing group question Charles Couzens of Ecos Trust about the ecological features of their latest housing development in Somerset
Photo: © Paul Swatridge