A HIGH quality scheme providing much-needed affordable rental housing for local people has been officially opened in Cotford St Luke.

South Western Housing Society and Taunton Deane Borough Council (TDBC) celebrated the opening of 28 new homes in the village.

The scheme, developed in partnership with the borough council and built by Kier Living, consists of eight three-bedroom houses, 16 two-bedroom houses and four one-bedroom flats.

One of the houses is a Lifetime Home, designed to ensure comfortable living for the long-term. It provides accessible and adaptable accommodation that will allow tenants to stay in their homes for longer and give greater choice to disabled people.

Andre Angelinetta, vice-chairperson for South Western Housing Society, conducted the opening. Donna Johnson, chief executive of the society and Cllr John Williams, Leader of TDBC, gave speeches.

Some of the society’s new tenants also joined the development partners and guests at the opening. They all have a strong connection to Cotford St Luke and have been moving into their new homes.

Mr Angelinetta said: “We’re pleased to have worked in partnership with Taunton Deane Borough Council on this development and we look forward to continuing our work with the council to provide many more homes over the coming years in Taunton.”

Cllr Williams added: “The council is committed to providing affordable housing for those who need modern homes to rent. It has made significant investments in housing and is unique in building its own stock of affordable properties.

“Schemes like this are really important for Taunton Deane, providing affordable housing to meet local need. Working in partnership with housing associations, such as South Western Housing Society, is key to delivering new affordable homes in the borough and these quality properties will be a boost to the rental market for local people.”

To be eligible for these properties applicants needed to be registered on http://www.homefindersomerset.co.uk/ and require a local connection to the parish of Cotford St Luke.