I was thrilled to share a landmark moment in West Somerset last week: the official opening of our brand new, eco-friendly council homes at Rainbow Way, Seaward Way in Minehead, writes Cllr Bill Revans.
After many years, the arrival of 54 zero-carbon homes marks the first time in a generation that we have been able to provide much-needed council housing in this town, and I couldn’t be prouder of everyone involved.
Rainbow Way is now home to local people with strong connections to Minehead, comprising 33 modern flats and 21 houses.
This development stands as a testament to the dedication of Somerset Council, our partners at Homes in Somerset, and the legacy of the former Somerset West and Taunton Council, who first identified and nurtured the vision for this site.
It was fitting that the former leader of Somerset West and Taunton councillor, Federica Smith-Roberts, cut the ribbon in her role as lead member for communities.
Demand for these homes was clear from the queues at the open days when we first let the community look around the development, and our local lettings policy has ensured that those with deep roots in the area have benefited most.
Due to data protection laws, the council cannot publish any information which would lead to any of the individuals being named or otherwise identifiable and predictably some have questioned who will be living in these houses on social media, with no basis in fact.
However, the conditions under which these were built and let under Homefinder Somerset prioritised:
- Residents ordinarily a resident within the parish of Minehead
- Residents with a strong local connections within the parish of Minehead, including either a 'close family association', permanent employment within the parish, or any periods of residence within the parish not immediately before a property becomes available
- Residents who have family or permanent employment within the adjoining parishes of Dunster, Minehead Without, Selworthy, Timberscombe and Wootton Courtenay
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At the opening ceremony on Wednesday, January 14, I was joined by colleagues and local residents to celebrate what truly is a landmark moment.
These high-quality, energy-efficient homes are more than just bricks and mortar - they symbolise our ongoing ambition to create affordable housing that meets the real needs of our community.
One resident told us how moving into their new flat was a “game-changer”, providing a sense of home and affordability that had previously felt out of reach.
Delivering these homes has also supported local jobs and skills, promoting both economic and social well-being.
As we look ahead, Somerset Council, together with Homes in Somerset, remains committed to building more energy-efficient, affordable council homes across our county.
Together, we are creating great places to live, supporting our local economy, and improving the health and happiness of Somerset residents.
By keeping a housing revenue account, Somerset Council is now providing new homes for local residents in Minehead, Taunton, Bridgwater, North Petherton and many other places in the former Sedgemoor and Taunton Deane districts.
We are also starting to develop council housing in the former South Somerset and we hope Mendip district council areas.
Thank you to everyone who has helped bring this vision to life.
I look forward to many more successes as we continue to put people, sustainability, and community at the heart of everything we do in Somerset.
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