The first residents and shared homeowners excitedly received their keys and unlocked their new front doors at Branstone Farm this week.
Branstone Farm is an award-wining development in the heart of the Arreton valley that is a template for regeneration, sustainability, and inclusive living.
Jointly developed
The site has been jointly developed by the Isle of Wight Council and Vectis Housing Association and features two, three and four bedroom properties for much needed rental and shared ownership.
42 affordable homes
Each of the 42 affordable homes — a major achievement in support of the Island’s housing strategy — has been built to a high specification for energy efficiency to help reduce energy use.
The site also boasts an open green space to enjoy and connect with nature, a communal orchard and garden to grow and harvest produce, and activities and events to cultivate a sense of community among new residents.
Wagstaff: A new start for my little family
Tracey Wagstaff (pictured at top), who has moved into one of the affordable private rental properties, said,
“Being a single parent of three children has been challenging with a constant worry of being asked to ‘move on’ at short notice.
“This is a new start for my little family with a new home, a new mobility car and my new ability dog, Honey, who I trained during lockdown.”
Pearl: A major housing project for the Isle of Wight
Martyn Pearl, chief executive officer at Vectis Housing Association, said,
“Branstone Farm is a major housing project for the Isle of Wight given the recognised shortage of affordable homes, particularly to support those households on medium and low incomes.”
Stephens: Addressing Islander housing needs is a key priority
Councillor Ian Stephens, Cabinet member for housing provision, said,
“I am delighted that the first residents have moved into their new homes at Branstone Farm. Our partnership with Vectis housing on this project is an example I want to see replicated on other council owned sites on the island, bringing our Biosphere vision to life.
“Addressing Islander housing needs is a key priority for this administration and I want to put on record the contribution of Cllr Clare Mosdell in making this happen.
“The impact on people’s wellbeing of having a safe, secure home cannot be underestimated but also feeling part of a local community and having great access to green space must be key aspects of all the housing delivery this council supports.”
Vectis: It’s lovely to be here
Sharon Harvey, operations director, and Jo Sandells, housing services manager, at Vectis Housing Association summed up the occasion by saying,
“It’s lovely to be here to see the start of this new community at Branstone Farm and we look forward to seeing it grow and flourish.”
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
