Poole-based affordable housing specialist AJC Group has submitted a detailed planning application to Dorset Council for 78 new homes on land north of Castle Lane, Okeford Fitzpaine. The proposed development will deliver at least 40% affordable housing, totalling 31 dwellings, split between affordable rent and shared ownership.
The site sits immediately north of AJC Group’s Comerwicke Fields scheme, a rare 100% affordable development in the village completed in 2023, which has been fully occupied since handover. This new application seeks to build on that success by bringing forward a balanced mix of homes to help meet urgent local demand.
There are currently over 6,600 households on the Dorset Council housing register, including 16 with a direct connection to Okeford Fitzpaine and a further 45 who have listed the village as a preferred location. Dorset’s latest housing need figures show that the county must double delivery from around 1,500 homes per year to over 3,200 — yet the council cannot currently demonstrate a five-year housing land supply.
The proposals for the 3.4-hectare (8.4-acre) site include a varied mix of one- to four-bedroom houses and apartments, extensive landscaping, open space, and a sustainable drainage system. Significant economic, social, and environmental benefits will be delivered, from job creation during construction to long-term biodiversity enhancements.
The scheme will also generate wider economic benefits through local employment opportunities and supply chain spending, as well as financial contributions to improve local infrastructure. Dorset Council’s Economic Development and Tourism spokesperson has confirmed support for the application, recognising its value in strengthening both housing delivery and the local economy.
Simon McFarlane, Planning Director of AJC Group, said: “We’ve already proven at Comerwicke Fields that well-designed, sensitively delivered affordable housing can integrate successfully into a village community — and this next proposed scheme is about building on that success. Okeford Fitzpaine needs new homes now, not in five or 10 years. Our proposal will make a meaningful contribution to the housing waiting list and give local people a real chance to stay in the village they call home.
“Dorset’s housing crisis is severe, and the reality is that without developments like this, the situation will only worsen. We’re ready to deliver quality homes that are sustainable, attractive, and — most importantly — accessible to the people who need them most.”
The proposed scheme features nine distinct house types, each drawing inspiration from Okeford Fitzpaine’s varied architectural heritage, including those seen on nearby listed buildings. By referencing local materials and architectural features, the design achieves a cohesive rural village aesthetic while offering variety and character throughout the development.
Pedestrian connectivity has been a key part of the design, with safe, attractive routes linking the new homes to the existing Comerwicke Fields development and the village recreation ground, and village centre beyond. A network of footpaths will create a walkable loop around the site, connecting residents to green spaces and amenities.
Parking provision meets local needs with a mix of allocated spaces and visitor spaces across the scheme, alongside sensitively designed car barns that complement the surrounding architecture.
If approved, construction could begin in 2026, with first completions expected the following year.
