Affordable homes to be built on Duchy estate

A NEW affordable housing scheme on two small site in the village of Dunsop Bridge in the forest of Bowland has been approved.

The scheme has been approved at a meeting of the local planning committee last week, subject to an agreement over some Section 106 amendments.

It has been put forward by the Duchy of Lancaster and will see 12 3-bed family homes being developed in the village. Local architectural practice Francis Roberts Architects has designed the scheme using styling and mineral in keeping with the vernacular.

It is the first of a new Duchy initiative designed to support rural communities.

The Duke of Lancaster Housing Trust, set up as a means of investing in sustainable and appropriate residential accommodation, will oversee the project and appoint a Registered Social Landlord to manage the completed scheme.

The Duchy of Lancaster is a private portfolio of more than 18,700 hectares of land founded in the 13th Century and held for the Queen in her role as the Duke of Lancaster.

It is a private landed estate which provides the Sovereign with an income that is independent from the public purse, but is not entitled to any capital gains derived from it.

The Duchy’s CEO Paul Clarke said: “The Duke of Lancaster Housing Trust will help to ensure that the architect’s vision is realised, that the homes are built to the highest possible standard and that the end results provides a number of sustainable dwellings for the future.

“We have been delighted with the vision and support that we have received from the
local community and the Parish Council, and pleased that officers and members have now given us permission to proceed,” he continued.

“We hope to be able to offer these new homes first and foremost to local residents – or to those who have been forced out of the village due to economic circumstances.”