Unlocking the Promise of Rural Exception Sites: Four Transformative Case Studies

Introduction

The need for affordable housing extends beyond city limits, often hitting rural communities hardest due to unique challenges such as high property prices and low average incomes. Rural Exception Sites have become a beacon of hope for such communities. These sites are specifically designed to provide affordable homes that meet current local housing need and remain so in perpetuity.  Let’s delve into four case studies that bring to life the transformative power of Rural Exception Sites.

Warehorne, Kent: Goldfield

The Challenge

Warehorne faces the quintessential problem of higher-than-average property values coupled with lower-than-average wages. The village urgently needed affordable homes for local residents, especially those who wish to stay close to their families and community.

The Solution

Goldfield is a small development consisting of four new homes—two houses and two flats. A successful collaboration between Warehorne Parish Council, Ashford Borough Council, Action with Communities in Rural Kent and English Rural, made this project possible. Special planning restrictions were implemented to ensure the homes remain affordable and are prioritised for local residents.

Key Features

✅ Opened by HRH The Princess Royal in December 2019.
✅ Second affordable housing scheme in Warehorne by English Rural; the first being four bungalows completed in 1995.
✅ High levels of insulation and Air Source Heat Pump technology for energy efficiency.

Impact

The development has not only addressed immediate housing needs but also contributed to a diverse, active community with a mix of age groups and income earners. One of the Goldfield residents now serves on the Parish Council. The use of ‘Fabric First’ construction principles ensures that these homes are energy-efficient, comfortable, and cost-effective for residents.

Staple, Kent: Bartlett Close

The Challenge

Staple had an active community but faced a shortage of affordable housing. A housing needs survey from 2015 highlighted this growing issue.

The Solution

The Bartlett Close development features six affordable homes, including two one-bedroom bungalows and four two-bedroom houses. English Rural, Staple Parish Council, and Dover District Council partnered to turn this dream into reality, with additional funding from Homes England.

Key Features

✅ Officially opened in July 2023 by HRH The Princess Royal.
✅ Also includes two three-bedroom chalet houses for open market sale, with proceeds used to subsidise the affordable homes.
✅ Located 16 miles north of Dover and nine miles east of Canterbury, adding to the village’s active community life.

Impact

The unique financial model demonstrated here could be a sustainable way to overcome financial barriers in high-cost rural areas. Bartlett Close serves as a template for what can be achieved with innovative funding mechanisms and strong community partnerships.

Roxwell, Essex: Glebe Meadow

The Challenge

Roxwell, like many Essex villages, struggled with high property values that made housing unaffordable for many local residents.

The Solution

The Glebe Meadow project consists of seven homes, five of which are affordable rentals. The local community, the Rural Community Council of Essex, Roxwell Parish Council, Chelmsford City Council, and English Rural all played pivotal roles in this initiative.

Key Features

✅ Opened in September 2020 by HRH The Princess Royal.
✅ Two homes sold at 75% of the open market value, a discount locked in perpetuity.
✅ Employed ‘Fabric First’ construction principles for energy efficiency.

Impact

The development has succeeded in providing essential affordable homes for local people, ensuring they can continue to be part of their home communities. Planning restrictions are in place to ensure that these homes will continue to serve local residents, maintaining the social fabric of Roxwell.

Dunsfold, Surrey: Miller Lane

The Challenge

Dunsfold faced a severe housing affordability crisis, with home values being 23 times the average local income.

The Solution

The Miller Lane project resulted in eight new homes, constructed in a joint effort involving Dunsfold Parish Council, Waverley Borough Council, and English Rural. This marked the third English Rural project in Dunsfold, underscoring the long-standing commitment to the village.

Key Features

✅ Opened in October 2021 by HRH The Princess Royal.
✅ Two additional homes made available at Discounted Local Sale to cross-subsidise the affordable homes.
✅ Set in a designated area of great landscape value, adding to the village’s appeal.

Impact

This project not only tackled immediate housing needs but also laid the foundation for sustainable community development. With varied housing options, including discounted sales, Miller Lane serves as a comprehensive solution to the village’s housing challenges.

Conclusion

These four case studies collectively illustrate the profound impact that Rural Exception Sites can have on rural communities. By harnessing local partnerships, innovative planning, and community spirit, these projects offer more than just homes; they provide a sustainable future for rural England.