Construction has begun on a new housing development in Dibden Purlieu, on the edge of The New Forest, by award-winning AJC Group.
The site promoted by AJC Group through planning, and to be built on behalf of housing association Aster Group will bring forward 25 all-affordable homes.
The New Forest District Council (NFDC) planning department had previously issued two separate planning refusals over three years, in the contention that the site was not suitable for the area. AJC Group eventually secured planning in January 2024 at appeal and will now be delivering housing stock of varying affordable tenures. The scheme will enable families and local people to stay in the area they grew up in, and otherwise have been increasingly priced out of.
David Cracklen, Director of AJC Group, said: “The New Forest is an area of Hampshire which is dramatically lacking in affordable housing stock. This development will make a real impact in meeting some of the local housing needs in the village and surrounding area. All homes will be energy efficient and built to the highest standards, providing a great opportunity for local families to stay local.
“The development will allow the next generation to afford to rent and buy in an area where they might have grown up or have family living. Our vision has always been to deliver lasting change through the building of affordable homes in sustainable vibrant communities, and this is exactly our aim for Dibden Purlieu.”
Amanda Williams, Chief Investment Officer at Aster Group, said: “This will be our second 100% affordable development in the New Forest and we are delighted to be bringing more affordable homes to a traditionally very expensive area.
“We know the homes are going to make a huge difference to local people’s lives and we are delighted that the New Forest District Council is in support of making sure the right homes are delivered in the right places for the local community.”
The homes have been sensitively designed to complement the local area, featuring red brick traditional detailing and porches, tiled roofs, exposed barge rafters, and bay windows. Retention of grass verges and existing mature trees will be enhanced with additional planting, creating an attractive street scene.
In a highly accessible location, the development is half a mile from Dibden Purlieu town centre with shops, schools, and public transport facilities within easy walking or cycling distance.
The 11 rented homes will be allocated by the New Forest District Council.
