Report on meeting at Mendip District Council 13/01/06
Re Affordable
housing at Leigh-on-Mendip
Present:
Phil Miller, Housing Project Officer, MDC
Caroline Hughes, Knightstone Housing
Ed Baker Development Control (Planning)
Shaun Travers Architectural representative (Boon Brown)
Ty Schlechter L-o-M Parish Council
John Wright L-o-M Parish Council
The following points were raised by the parish councillors, and elicited the responses shown;
1. The location, in the centre
of the retained land was undesirable.
This had been discussed and negotiated with the County land agent, and was not now open to revision.
2. The location, opposite
listed buildings, required attention to the village design statement.
This is being done, with wood doors, double roman tiles, limestone instead of Blue Lias, and porch features.
3. Why are all units to be
rented and not shared equity?
Two years ago, when the bid for funding was submitted, no strong preference was discerned on the village survey, and the housing association made a choice for renting.
4. There is some scepticism that the houses will be occupied by village people - and by single people in need of accommodation.
The houses will be covered by a Section 106 agreement, which requires allocation to residents/relatives/workers from the village in perpetuity, on assured tenancies. If there is sufficient capacity, single people could be allocated a two bedroom unit.
5. The eight vehicle access points to a narrow road (18') which is frequently half occupied by vehicles servicing the businesses on the North side constitutes a significant danger.
The plans have been inspected by the County Council Highways dept, and approval issued in writing (Ian Sorensan).
6. An estimate of building costs was requested, and an indication of the proposed rental.
This will not be available until tenders have been received. Local builders will be included. Expected rent levels should be in the region of £85 p.w.
7. Time scale anticipated.
Start April 06 : completion December 06
It was emphasised by the Housing Projects Officer that the (Central Government) Housing Fund allows no variation in the agreed grants. The bids for 2006/7 and 2007/8 are already in. The funding for 2008 onwards is to be biased towards urban housing and it is anticipated that competition for any rural grants will be substantial. If, for any reason this project is lost, the chances of replacing, or renewing it in the foreseeable future are slim.
The above notes from the
meeting are for the purpose of information to the parish and have not been
approved by all parties.