A new housing initiative is set to launch in North Devon, addressing the increasing demand for housing in the region. Tarka Coombe, located in Landkey near Barnstaple, will officially welcome buyers on Saturday, January 24. This development introduces two show homes for prospective buyers to explore.
Challenges in National Housing Demand
The launch of Tarka Coombe comes at a critical time. England faces a substantial housing shortage, necessitating the construction of approximately 300,000 new homes annually to accommodate population growth and household formation. However, recent statistics indicate that the actual delivery of new homes has consistently fallen short of this benchmark.
Government Targets and Shortfalls
- The target for new homes in England is around 300,000 annually.
- Estimates suggest that net additional homes are significantly below this target.
- 1.5 million new homes are expected to be delivered over the current parliamentary term.
Industry experts, along with housing charities, have raised concerns that without enhanced policy support, these targets will remain unmet. A collaborative report by the National Housing Federation and the Home Builders Federation underscores the imminent risk of a housing shortfall if funding and planning measures do not improve.
Regional Housing Needs in North Devon
In North Devon and the surrounding Torridge area, new national housing requirements mandate that local councils prepare for over 1,300 new homes each year. This represents a significant increase from earlier targets and poses challenges for councils striving to balance development with environmental conservation.
Affordability and Accessibility
Current housing prices in Devon surpass the average local incomes, making it difficult for residents to achieve homeownership. The Tarka Coombe project aims to address this issue by delivering 105 new homes, including 45 designated as affordable housing. This initiative will provide locals with better access to housing near their workplaces and families.
Sustainable Design and Community Integration
Developers have prioritized energy efficiency in the design of Tarka Coombe homes. Certain properties will feature electric vehicle charging points, promoting sustainable living. Furthermore, the development plan includes green spaces and upgrades to local community facilities.
Tarka Coombe is conveniently situated within walking distance of essential amenities, including shops, a pub, a post office, a community center, and a primary school. Additionally, it offers reliable transport links to larger towns such as Barnstaple and Exeter.
Registering for the Opening Weekend
Individuals interested in viewing the new homes during the opening weekend on January 24 are encouraged to register in advance with the developer. This step will ensure a smooth experience for all attendees.
