The Isle of Wight council is supporting a significant new affordable housing scheme, the largest of its kind in several years.
On Tuesday, the council’s commitment to delivering affordable homes, whether directly or in partnership with others, was highlighted at the Three Oaks development on the outskirts of Newport.
Showcasing modern construction methods
At the event, three homes were built in a single day, demonstrating the potential of modern methods of construction (MMC) and the skill of the local workforce.
Organised by Sovereign Network Group and their construction partner Captiva Homes, the event showcased the progress of the 145-home project at Three Oaks.
The first homes are expected to be available from summer 2025. Anyone interested in renting one should register on the Island Homefinder website.
A priority project for the Island
Senior council representatives, including council leader Councillor Phil Jordan and deputy leader and Cabinet member for housing, Councillor Ian Stephens, attended to mark the milestone.
Three Oaks is a key part of the council’s strategy to address the Island’s housing shortage, particularly as demand for temporary accommodation has increased by 60 per cent over the past two years.
The council’s housing and planning teams have worked closely with Sovereign Network Group and Captiva Homes to ensure the development meets local needs, including homes for larger families currently in council-provided temporary accommodation.
The scheme includes 87 homes for social rent and 58 for Shared Ownership, designed to support local people struggling to access housing.
Commitment to affordable housing
Councillor Stephens stressed the urgency of the issue, saying,
“The shortage of affordable homes on our Island is a critical issue that demands innovative solutions and unwavering determination.
“The collaboration between Sovereign Network Group and Captiva Homes, with the support of the Isle of Wight Council, on the Three Oaks development exemplifies our commitment to the delivery of affordable new homes for our community.
“We must ensure that families, young people starting out on the housing ladder, and those struggling to find a place to live, whether rented or bought, have access to quality, affordable housing.”
Boosting the local economy
Attendees at the event saw the staged assembly process, which began with the ground floor panels being installed in the morning. By the afternoon, the first-floor cassettes and roofing structure were in place.
A tour of the nearby Gibbs Timber Frame factory was also included, providing insights into the off-site construction process that underpins MMC.
As a result of the Three Oaks contract, six new jobs have been created at Gibbs Timber Frame, bringing wider economic benefits to the local community.
A collaborative approach
Councillor Jordan highlighted the importance of joint working, stating,
“Affordable housing being delivered on the Isle of Wight is a major priority for the council.
“Achieving this on a large scale requires innovation and close collaboration, and this event has been an excellent demonstration of both.
“It has also provided a vital platform to discuss the best ways forward with local stakeholders and see first-hand the impressive plans Sovereign Network Group and Captiva Homes have for Three Oaks.”
