Dover District Council (DDC) has officially commenced construction on eight new affordable homes on Military Road, marking a significant step in addressing local housing needs.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held yesterday, saw representatives from DDC, BEC Construction Ltd., and JPN Projects Ltd. gather to celebrate the project’s launch. The development, situated behind the Grade II listed Alma Hostel, will provide six one-bedroom flats, one two-bedroom flat, and one two-bedroom wheelchair-accessible flat. Funding for the project is being supported by Homes England.
Contractor BEC Construction Ltd. is building the homes to high environmental standards, incorporating air source heat pumps and rooftop solar panels to combat fuel poverty and promote sustainability. This initiative aligns with DDC’s ongoing efforts to revitalize brownfield sites and deliver much-needed affordable housing across the district, following successful schemes in Whitfield and Deal.
Pamela Brivio, DDC’s cabinet member for housing said:
“This project demonstrates our commitment to breathing new life into vacant land and providing secure, affordable homes for our residents. The impact of having a stable home is life-changing, and we are determined to continue delivering more affordable housing to local people.”
The development highlights the importance of affordable housing, which includes social and affordable rented homes, as well as shared ownership options. Social rent is set by a government formula, while affordable rent is capped at 80% of market rent. This project is a crucial step in ensuring that Dover residents have access to quality, affordable living spaces.