‘Significant boost for Dorset’: work begins on largest affordable housing scheme in years
Work is now underway on 107 affordable homes at Four Paddocks in Dorchester, after SNG and the Duchy of Cornwall completed contracts for the development
Construction has begun on what is being hailed as the largest affordable housing development delivered in Dorset for many years, offering more than 100 homes aimed at tackling the county’s growing housing crisis.
Housing association Sovereign Network Group (SNG) and Duchy of Cornwall have completed contracts for the Four Paddocks development in Dorchester, with builder CG Fry & Son now on site and work officially underway.
The scheme, located on St George’s Road, will deliver 107 affordable homes and is being promoted as a major step towards addressing housing shortages across Dorset.
To mark the start of construction, Dorchester Mayor Les Fry visited the site, describing the project as an important opportunity for residents struggling to access affordable housing.
All 107 properties will be designated as affordable homes. Of these, 66 will be offered through Affordable Rent to people on Dorset Council’s housing register, while a further 41 homes will be available through Shared Ownership, providing a lower-cost route onto the property ladder.
The development will include a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom houses and apartments designed in keeping with the traditional architectural style associated with nearby Poundbury.
Residents are expected to begin moving into the homes from late 2027.
Will Murphy from SNG said the project was particularly significant at a time when housing providers across the country faced mounting challenges in delivering new homes.
“When complete this project will provide high-quality, affordable homes for local people in Dorset, enabling them to put down roots, build their futures, and thrive within their communities for generations to come,” he said.
The homes will also incorporate a range of sustainable features, including air source heat pumps and solar panels, supporting the Duchy’s ambition to reach net zero by 2032.
According to Dorset Council, around 6,000 people are currently on the county’s housing waiting list.
Gill Taylor said the development would help local people remain in the communities where they work and have family ties.
“We know how challenging it is for many local people to find a home they can afford,” she said. “This development is a great example of partnership working delivering real results for Dorset residents.”