Councillors from Cornwall Council embarked upon a visit to two new affordable housing development sites spearheaded by Ocean Housing.  

The projects, at Polgrean in St Blazey and Respryn Road in Bodmin, are all about building sustainable and inclusive communities, with a balance of social rented and shared ownership housing. 

By offering such a mix, the organisation aims to address the diverse housing needs of local residents and tackle affordable housing supply issues in the region – providing secure homes, fostering community spirit and giving many a foot on the property ladder. 

The projects represent a £28 million investment within Cornwall, funded by Ocean with grants and support from Cornwall Council and Homes England. At Polgrean, there will be 51 rented homes with nine shared ownership properties – 16 of which have been built following new guidance to provide extra light, storage and flexible spacious accommodation for older people.  

At Respryn, councillors heard how there is a massive need for new homes in the Bodmin area. Construction taking place on land previously used for the Focus DIY has resulted in 21 homes for social rent and with 23 shared ownership. 

Mark Gardner, CEO of Ocean Housing Group, said: “We’re excited about the positive impact these developments will have. Social housing is vitally important for Cornwall as we’re so much more than a landlord.  

“We’re helping our tenants with money advice, social issues, health and well-being and so on. 

“The councillors will have taken away with them that the more homes that we can create, the better our communities will become.” 

Residents have already moved into the new developments, which are both due to complete next year – Respryn by the end of March, Polgrean by autumn.