Persimmon partnership sees new homes for Wiltshire

Wessex region recently handed over the keys for seven high-quality, new homes to a local housing association at Backbridge Farm site in Malmesbury.

This latest tranche of properties for shared ownership have been transferred to Selwood Housing, a not-for-profit housing association with over 7000 homes for rent and shared ownership in the South West.

The handover happened in the presence of Wiltshire councillors Gavin Grant – who is also Mayor of Malmesbury – and Martin Smith, whose ward covers the Backbridge Farm site.

The homes will go to local people and are part of a tranche of 80 properties that will be handed over as part of the development at Backbridge Farm, 60% of which will be for affordable rent.

The handover comes after the opening of a footbridge linking the site to the town across the River Avon, which was also attended by Cllrs Grant and Smith, in October.

The Backbridge Farm development will eventually comprise 201 high-quality homes, a village green, pocket parks, play areas, and attenuation ponds, all designed to enhance the lives of residents and the broader local community.

As part of its mission to deliver a positive and lasting legacy in the areas in which it builds, Wessex region has also donated to nearby organisations such as Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Malmesbury Town Carnival through its Community Champions scheme.

Persimmon Homes Regional Managing Director Julian Roper, said:

“Persimmon is committed to leave a positive community legacy where we build, and a core element of our offering is the transfer of quality new homes to housing association partners.

“We are delighted to have transferred the latest tranche of these houses, and we hope this significant community contribution will help alleviate pressure on the local housing list.

“We are pleased to partner with Selwood Housing to deliver this increase in provision for the people of Malmesbury as we continue to make progress on this beautiful site delivering quality homes for local people.”

Paul Walsh, group development director, for Selwood Housing, added:

“Selwood Housing is always happy to work with partners like Persimmon who help to create a strong sense of place for our customers in their homes.

“We’ve now completed 51 new homes in Malmesbury with a further 29 due for completion in December. This will make a huge difference in helping local people find stable homes and get onto the housing ladder in a very challenging market.

“We’re offering homes for both affordable rent and shared ownership, and with a range of properties available across 1-2 bed apartments, 2 - 4 bed homes and 2 bed bungalows, we’re able to support local families and individuals with diverse housing needs.

“Backbridge Farm reflects Selwood Housing’s commitment to providing local affordable homes and revitalising our local communities.”

Cllr Gavin Grant – Councillor and Mayor of Malmesbury – commented:

"It's good to see the Backbridge Farm housing development coming along at a pace, particularly following the opening of the new footbridge, which significantly enhances the development's integration with the town. I'm also pleased to see the developer picking up on issues I have raised like providing grit bins. These are important and enhance the safety and enjoyment of residents in their new homes.

“I eagerly anticipate working with Selwood Housing as the affordable housing partner as residents move into their new homes and applaud their collaboration with Persimmon in delivering such homes for the local community."

Cllr Martin Smith – Councillor for Sherston where Backbridge Farm is located – also said:
"I'm pleased to see the increase in affordable homes being constructed and offered in our community, especially in light of the county's pressing need for new housing. This initiative promises to make a dent in the local shortage of affordable homes.
“From the outset, Persimmon has committed to delivering more than just market-rate properties, with a focus on community support. It's heartening to witness their promise come to fruition through a productive partnership with Selwood Housing."