Mid Devon District Council has secured the riverside development to provide 39 new homes for social housing.

This acquisition follows the closure of the Council’s own development company, which had initially intended to sell the homes on the open market.

To address the need for affordable and social housing in the district, St George’s Court will provide 28 social rent units and 11 affordable rent units. The Council’s Cabinet approved prioritising allocations for residents aged over 60, reflecting the Council’s commitment to supporting older residents.

St George’s Court, which began construction in August 2018, is made up of a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments, two-bedroom terrace and semi-detached houses, and two three-bedroom semi-detached houses. The development, which previously won a national housing design award for its architectural innovation, is positioned in the heart of Tiverton and offers a stunning waterfront location with views across the River Exe.

The first tenants are expected to move into their new homes at St Georges Court early in the New Year.

The energy-efficient properties feature modern, fitted kitchens with integrated appliances, elegant bathrooms, generous room sizes, and allocated parking, including secure under-croft parking bays with lift access to the apartments.

The acquisition of St George’s Court is part of the Council’s wider Housing Strategy, which aims to deliver 500 new social housing units over five years. This development supports the Council’s Housing Strategy 2021-25 objectives to increase the supply of affordable homes and retain a sustainable Council housing stock.

Councillor Simon Clist, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing, Assets & Property, said:

“Our focus is on delivering homes that meet local needs. By acquiring the homes at St Georges Court, for our own social housing stock, we have achieved a successful outcome for our communities and residents, continuing our commitment to providing affordable, high quality and energy efficient homes in Mid Devon. Their central location will also provide the added benefit of more footfall to the town centre, supporting and enhancing local businesses and the wider community.”