TWO dozen lower cost homes have been unveiled in a Vale village.

The Durbeyfield Park development, by the Aster Group, is in Marnhull, near Sturminster Newton.

Made up of two, three and four-bedroom houses, Dorset Council said the development was designed “to help families find a home they can afford in the area”.

Of the 24 homes, 17 will be available for affordable rent and seven are offered through shared ownership.

Cllr Nick Ireland, leader of Dorset Council, said: “Homes people can afford is one of the biggest issues facing our rural communities. These new homes at Durbeyfield Park will make a real difference for local families and individuals who want to stay in the area.

“They are good quality, energy-efficient homes that are built to last and reflect the character of the village.

“We’ve just had Rural Housing Week which is a chance to highlight why schemes like this matter so much. They support local people, strengthen communities and help ensure Dorset remains a place where everyone can live well.”

The homes were built by Dorchester-based CG Fry & Son, and were designed to have a “traditional look that reflects the local character of Marnhull, alongside a high-quality finish and careful attention to detail”.

While the affordable rented homes will be ready for residents shortly, a number of shared ownership sales are progressing, with some still available at www.aster.co.uk/sales/developments/dorset/durbeyfield-park-marnhull.

Amanda Williams, Aster Group chief investment officer, said: “Affordable housing plays an important role in supporting rural communities and helping local people access homes that meet their needs.

“At Durbeyfield Park, we’re proud to be delivering these new high-quality, energy-efficient homes that will help customers manage their living costs and enjoy the benefits of a modern home.

“The shared ownership homes will also provide an affordable route onto, or back onto, the housing ladder for those who may otherwise be priced out of the local market. By providing a mix of tenures, we’re helping to meet local housing need and giving more people with a connection to the area the opportunity to continue to live in a place they call home.”

Mike Crawford, development construction director at CG Fry & Son, said:
“We are proud to have delivered these new homes at Durbeyfield Park in partnership with Aster and Dorset Council.

“The development has been carefully designed to reflect the character and heritage of Marnhull, combining traditional architecture with modern, energy-efficient features that will benefit residents for years to come. We are delighted to see the homes now ready to welcome their new residents.”

The homes are expected to be advertised in October, with eligible applicants able to bid for the homes through www.dorsetcouncilhomechoice.org.uk.

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Durbyfield Park has been developed in Marnhull. Picture: Dorset Council