James Wild MP has joined local residents, returning tenant Marlene, and the Chief Executive of Freebridge Community Housing, Anita Jones, to officially open 12 new affordable homes in Brancaster Staithe. This marks the successful completion of a housing project he has supported from its earliest stages.
Opening the ceremony, James spoke about the importance of affordable housing in rural communities and highlighted the extensive collaboration that had brought the development to fruition, before handing over to Anita Jones for further remarks.
The ribbon was then cut by Marlene - the development’s only returning resident - who was joined by James, representatives from The Design Partnership, Robson Construction Ltd, and local planners, before guests were invited to tour the homes for themselves.
Designed to meet local housing needs, the seven three-bedroom houses, four two-bedroom houses, and one two-bedroom flat will all be for rent to local people. The homes combine Norfolk architecture, with flint work and red brick detailing, alongside modern touches such as solar panels and electric vehicle charging points.
The development follows destruction of four properties in a fire during the July 2022 heatwave. Since then, James has been closely engaged with the project, visiting the site to view proposed designs and development plans as Freebridge prepared its planning application.
Speaking after the event, James Wild MP said:
"It was a pleasure to join Marlene as she cut the ribbon on her new home, alongside the team from Freebridge, architects, and contractors who brought this project to life.The design of these new homes shows a great respect for the village’s character with their quintessentially Norfolk flint work and red brick detailing to their modern touches from solar panels to EV charging.
Having supported this project from its beginning after the original houses were damaged in the 2022 heatwave, it's great to see these homes ready for local families.”
Anita Jones, CEO of Freebridge Community Housing, said:
“We’re proud to mark the completion of these new homes in Brancaster Staithe, an important milestone in our commitment to supporting sustainable communities across West and North Norfolk.
“This development goes beyond bricks and mortar; it’s about enabling local people to remain rooted in the places they call home, despite growing pressures from second home ownership and rising housing costs.
“By investing in high-quality, energy-efficient homes, we’re helping to secure the future of coastal villages like Brancaster Staithe, ensuring they remain vibrant, inclusive, and resilient for generations to come”.
This development represents a significant step forward for Brancaster Staithe, a village where the rise in second home ownership has made it increasingly difficult for local people to find affordable places to live.
With many properties in the area used as second homes, holiday homes or short-term lets, the availability of permanent housing for year-round residents has been limited.
By delivering homes that are both affordable and environmentally conscious, Freebridge is helping to rebalance the local housing market ensuring that those with strong ties to the community can continue to live, work, and thrive in the community.
