MARK COMMUNITY LAND TRUST
NEWSLETTER No 7 – AUGUST 2016
Proposed development of
affordable rented homes for Mark Residents
It has been a while since we have provided an update, primarily because there simply hasn’t been anything specific to share, despite considerable activity by the Steering Group. A key challenge due to Government legislation changes in late 2015 has been securing funding, which has led to a change of our Housing Association partner from Aster Homes to South West Housing Society (SWHS), who we are delighted to say are a local company based in Rooksbridge and have considerable experience in the provision of affordable homes.
We have also been busy drawing up agreements and defining criteria for the allocation of the properties to ensure they are let to Mark residents. The next major step is for several detailed surveys to be undertaken, and a proposed design and layout prepared. Taking into account the findings of the surveys, we should be in a position to apply for Planning permission around September/October. The Steering Group will be working closely with all the various experts to ensure the properties are in keeping with the village and sensitive to their surroundings.
To ensure that the views of the community are taken into account we have two information sharing events planned: -
At both sessions, as well as the CLT, there will be representatives from Sedgemoor District Council, the Housing Association and other experts who will be working with the CLT to bring the project to fruition. It is anticipated we will have proposed design drawings available for these sessions. There will also be information about how to register for affordable rented accommodation in Mark.
We encourage all residents and shareholders to attend one of these two events as appropriate and to complete a feedback form to register their opinions. These forms will help us to assess whether we have got the detail right and in line with the community’s expectations.
If you are not yet a member of the CLT and would like to join, you can do so at either event by purchasing shares at a cost of £1 each.
Anyone wishing to register for an affordable rented home in Mark, is encouraged to do this as soon as possible by visiting www.homefindersomerset.co.uk and completing an application form, indicating the village of ‘Mark’ as their preferred place to live and answer all questions about their connection to the village. Those already registered are encouraged to check their application to ensure they have stated ‘Mark’ as their preferred location.
Application forms can also be obtained by calling the council on 0300 303 7800.