Braunton Families Struggle as Devon Village Seeks Affordable Housing Solutions
Braunton faces a housing crisis as families are priced out, prompting calls for affordable homes to support the local community
Braunton, Devon, Affordable Housing, Housing Crisis, Community Land Trust
Braunton: The countryside charity Devon CPRE is stepping up to support a plan for nine social homes near the historic Great Field. They believe this small development could help meet 10% of the local social housing needs without adding a bunch of market homes.
Steve Crowther, the chairman of Devon CPRE, mentioned that they’re not against all development. They want to protect the countryside while also ensuring that young people can afford to live in the area. It’s a tough balance, but they’re committed to it.
He pointed out that many parts of Devon risk becoming holiday hotspots with no locals left to work there. The rental market has taken a hit since online B&Bs became popular, and homes are often bought up as investments, pushing prices out of reach for locals.
Emma Hookway, who started the North Devon and Torridge Housing Crisis Group, shared her own struggles with finding a home for herself and her son. She’s seen firsthand how dire the situation is for many families who are stuck renting. The demand for rental properties is way higher than what’s available.
Many long-time residents are being forced out of Braunton due to skyrocketing prices and a lack of rental options. Emma fully supports the Community Land Trust development, saying it’s crucial for keeping some locals in the village. She fears her family might be the last to stay if things don’t change.
Steve Crowther added that house prices in North Devon shot up by 22.5% in just one year, making it even harder for average earners to find affordable homes. With 14,000 families on waiting lists, the need for social housing is urgent, especially since fewer than 10,000 social-rent homes have been built in the last 33 years.
He emphasized that something has to give. The current government policies create a tough situation where they have to balance local green space and heritage status with the pressing need for social housing. The proposed development could help 82 families currently waiting for homes.
The initial application is just for Permission in Principle, but Devon CPRE hopes the full application will focus on quality design and environmental benefits. They want to highlight the history of the Great Field too.
North Devon Council has classified the application as a ‘delegated decision,’ but given the local support, it’s likely that councillors will bring it up for discussion in the full planning committee early next year.