The first council housing development in West Somerset for a generation has officially opened, providing 54 new eco-friendly homes in Rainbow Way, Minehead. The development features 33 flats and 21 houses, all of which have been let and are now occupied by local residents with strong connections to the area.
The site, located off Seaward Way, was initially identified by the former Somerset West and Taunton Council and was delivered to completion by Somerset Council in partnership with Homes in Somerset, the council’s housing development delivery partner.
Cllr Federica Smith Roberts, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Communities, said:
“We are all delighted to celebrate the opening of the Seaward Way/Rainbow Way development, a landmark moment for Minehead, bringing high quality zero-carbon homes to Somerset which residents deserve.”
Demand for the homes was demonstrated at open day events during construction, with the council’s local lettings policy ensuring that the properties were allocated to those with deep local connections.
Somerset Council’s Leader, Bill Revans, attended the opening ceremony on Wednesday 14 January, commenting:
“The Seaward Way development opening marks the first council homes to come to the town in 30 years. This is a huge achievement by everyone involved, bringing the types of home to the area that residents can be proud of.”
Residents have welcomed the development, with one resident from Shell House in Rainbow Way saying:
“I’m so glad I found my flat at Rainbow Way. It felt like home from the moment I walked in. The affordability was a game-changer for me, especially after dealing with rising costs in private renting.”
Duncan Harvey, Head of Housing Growth and Regeneration at Homes in Somerset, added:
“We’re thrilled to be celebrating the completion of this impressive new council housing project. Homes in Somerset is proud to have worked alongside Somerset Council to bring forward high-quality, energy-efficient homes that meet local need.
Today’s success underlines our shared ambition to deliver more energy-efficient, affordable council owned homes across Somerset, creating great places, supporting local jobs and skills and improving residents’ health and wellbeing.
We look forward to continuing this partnership with Somerset Council as they advance their ambitious housebuilding programme, helping to turn strategic commitments into real homes for Somerset people.”
The homes were constructed by Classic Builders and funded through the Council’s Housing Revenue Account, Homes England Grant Funding, Right to Buy receipts, and developer contributions, marking a major step forward in Somerset’s efforts to provide sustainable and affordable housing for local communities.
