We have teamed up with Gilbert & Goode to provide 20 new affordable homes in Millbrook, Cornwall, helping more local people access safe, secure and affordable housing.
The new homes will be built on land at Southdown Road and will be available at social rent, offering an affordable housing option for local people who may otherwise struggle to find a home in the area.
The plans were developed following engagement with local residents, Millbrook Parish Council and Cornwall Council. Feedback from the community helped shape the scheme to ensure it fits well with the existing village and meets local housing needs.
Millbrook is Cornwall’s largest village, but it has seen very little affordable housing built in recent years. As a result, many local people and families face challenges finding homes they can afford close to where they live, work and have support networks.
As well as providing much-needed homes, the development has been designed to create a welcoming and sustainable community. Plans include:
- Community allotments where residents can grow fruit and vegetables.
- Sustainable drainage features to help manage rainwater and support the local environment.
- Informal open spaces for residents to enjoy and relax in.
- Bungalows designed to support older residents or those looking to downsize while remaining in their local community.
The development forms part of our wider commitment to increasing the supply of affordable homes across the South West, particularly in rural and coastal communities where housing need is often greatest.
Anthony Eke, Head of New Business at LiveWest, said: “Communities like Millbrook are an important part of Cornwall, but rising house prices often make it difficult for local people to stay in the places they call home.
“These new homes will help address that challenge by providing genuinely affordable housing for local people. We worked closely with residents and local stakeholders throughout the consultation process to create a development that not only delivers new homes but also contributes positively to the community.
“The variety of homes being provided, together with the allotments and open spaces, will create a place where people can put down roots and thrive.
“Building affordable homes in rural areas can be more challenging and expensive, which is why many communities have seen little development in recent years.
"Thanks to support from Homes England, Cornwall Council and our own investment, we can continue delivering the affordable homes that local people need while helping rural communities remain vibrant and sustainable.”
Councillor Peter La Broy, Cornwall Council Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “Across Cornwall, many people are living in housing that is unsuitable for their needs or in temporary accommodation.
“While there is no single solution to the housing challenges we face, developments like this are an important step forward. By supporting affordable housing schemes such as this one, we can increase the number of social rented homes available for local people through Homechoice in the areas where they are most needed.”
The development is being supported through funding from Homes England, the Government’s housing and regeneration agency.
Shahi Islam, Director of Affordable Housing Grants at Homes England, said: “Increasing the supply of high-quality affordable homes remains one of our key priorities. We are pleased to support LiveWest in delivering these much-needed homes in Millbrook and helping create a community where people can build their futures.”
Cornwall Councillor for Rame and St Germans, Kate Ewert, said: “Housing need in our rural communities is extremely high, while house prices and demand from second homes and holiday lets continue to create challenges for local residents.
“Affordable social housing plays a vital role in helping families stay together, supporting local communities and ensuring people can continue living in the areas where they grew up.
“I am grateful to LiveWest for working closely with local residents and stakeholders to deliver a scheme that responds to local needs and will provide 20 affordable homes for people in Millbrook.”
Sam Tordoff, Operations Director at Gilbert & Goode, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside LiveWest on this important development. As a Cornish-based developer, we are committed to creating high-quality homes that meet the needs of local communities.
“The Millbrook scheme demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations work together with a shared goal of delivering sustainable homes and stronger communities for the future.”