SSH build 10 new homes for local people in Templecombe in partnership with Rok
22 September 2006

South Somerset Homes are celebrating the completion of their latest new housing development in Templecombe where £1 million has been spent building 10 brand new affordable homes. The homes, which have been built on land already owned by the housing association, have been built by South Somerset Homes’ partnering contractor Rok.

Nineteen garages were demolished in order to build the new homes, 5 of which are for rent and 5 for shared ownership. The scheme, which has been named Warwick Close, is made up of 2 two bedroom houses, 7 three bedroom houses and 1 four bedroom house. The scheme has parking for twenty-four cars with some of the homes having off road parking.

Pictured here are the new homes

The homes have been built using cutting edge technology. The main structural elements such as the inner cavity walls, floors and roof components are made from timber. The timber frame walls and other elements have been designed and provided by Frame UK who are leading providers of timber frame housing. Using these modern methods of construction helps to improve quality and reduce time on site. Rok have completed all substructures, internal fitting out, external cladding and all external works, drainage and services.

Some of the houses have an en-suite bathroom with all of them having double-glazing, electric water heating and night storage central heating, a small patio and shed in the rear garden, as well as two parking spaces to the front and generally higher space standards than most house builders. In addition to this all of the new homes exceed current requirements for thermal insulation. Because they are timber framed, they heat up quickly and due to their level of insulation they stay warm for longer and in addition, with no ‘cold spots’, they are not prone to condensation.

Rebecca Pumphrey (aged 28 years) and her three children Joshua (aged 5 years), Emma (aged 2 years) and Abigail (aged 1 year) have moved into a new home at Warwick Close and are absolutely thrilled with their brand new home.

Pictured here is Rebecca Pumphrey (resident) with her three children Joshua (aged 5 years), Abigail (aged 1 year) and Emma (aged 2 years)

Rebecca said, “I am absolutely over the moon with my new home. Before I moved in I was living in a flat above a shop with my three children, which was just awful. Now we have 3 bedrooms and lots of room to move about and most importantly a garden which the children just love. I was so thrilled to be offered a new home in Templecombe as I have lived here for 3 years and my mum also lives in the village and I wanted to stay near to her as she helps me out with the children. It has made such a difference to all of our lives.”

Geoff Atkinson, Chief Executive at South Somerset Homes said, “We are here to meet the communities’ needs for quality affordable homes. The quality affordable homes that we have built in Templecombe have been given to families who come from Templecombe meaning that when we say local we really mean local.”

Chris Hyde, Roks Area Leader said, "We are delighted to have contributed to this excellent example of working in partnership. The team has produced a quality development to fit within its existing environment and to enhance the local community."

An open day was held at Warwick Close to celebrate the completion of this project. Many local and parish councillors, external agencies and residents attended.

Pictured here is Jay Lambe (Development Manager, South Somerset Homes), Joshua (aged 5 years), Abigail (aged 1 year), Rebecca Pumphrey (resident), Emma (aged 2 years), Vince Barlow (Site Manager, Rok)