Construction has started in Dorchester on a long-planned housing scheme that will provide 15 low-cost homes for younger local workers.
The Roman Corner development will transform a former tennis court site at West Walks into energy-efficient one-bedroom flats, which will be offered at social rent and prioritised for people aged up to 35 who are working in the town and on the housing register.
The project is being led by Dorchester Area Community Land Trust, supported by Dorchester Town Council and Dorset Council, with Aster and AJC overseeing delivery and long-term management after several years of planning since the site was first identified in 2017.
Tricia Mitchell said affordable housing remains “one of the biggest problems” and described the scheme as “a tiny step” towards helping younger people access homes they can afford, while Councillor Gill Taylor said the town “urgently needs more homes that our residents can afford to live in.”
Archaeological investigations carried out before building began uncovered evidence of historic quarrying and a range of artefacts, including pottery, coins and personal items, which will now be recorded.
Construction is due to be completed by summer 2027, with a ceremony held on site to mark the start of work.