WORK has started on 18 much-needed affordable homes in Chudleigh Knighton. 

Teign Housing has gone into partnership with housebuilder Baker Estates to deliver the new properties for rent and shared ownership at Turnpike Fields in the village. 

Tom Woodman, chief executive of Teign Housing, met Graham Hutton, deputy managing director of Baker Estates, for a tour of the development and to see the progress of the two, three and four bedroom homes.

Teign Housing already manages 4,000 homes across south Devon. 

Tom said: ‘We’ve been very impressed with the first phase of Baker Estates’ Turnpike Fields and equally delighted to see progress and the quality of the homes. 

‘Affordable quality homes are incredibly important to all communities, and it’s great to be part of achieving this in Chudleigh Knighton.’

Graham commented: ‘This is an important investment in new affordable homes in Chudleigh Knighton which has been welcomed by local people.’

Turnpike Fields will address the demand for bungalows, family and smaller homes, and provide benefits to the community through £1.7 million from the Community Infrastructure Levy which will be invested in local projects. 

Graham added: ‘A new housing development brings benefits to communities well beyond just the new homes themselves. 

‘As well as a mix of affordable and open market houses and bungalows, we will also be paying £1.7m Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) to the council. 

‘This is specifically to provide the local infrastructure enhancements that the community wants. Fifteen percent of this figure goes directly to the parish council and is therefore targeted to bring benefits locally.’