New affordable homes project moves forward at Harmans Cross

Corfe Castle Community Land Trust (CCCLT) has announced it’s made significant progress in finding land suitable for the delivery of new much- needed affordable homes in Dorset.

In partnership with the Corfe Castle Charity - landowner of a site off Tabbit’s Hill Lane, Harmans Cross - and Aster Group, a registered housing provider, CCCLT is working to bring forward up to 25 affordable rented homes for people with a strong local connection. The land lies within Corfe Castle Parish, close to the boundary with Worth Matravers Parish and on the edge of Harmans Cross village.

CCCLT and Aster expect to submit a planning application later this year, and residents of both Corfe Castle and Harmans Cross will have opportunities to review and discuss the plans as they emerge.

Colin Fuller, CCLT Chair, said: “We have been working for over nine years to make this a reality, having assessed 21 potential sites within the Parish. This location is the only one where the CLT, landowner and registered provider have been able to work together constructively to pursue a 100% social rented scheme for local people.

“All parties are dedicated to ensuring that this project is genuinely community‑led. Our focus is on addressing local housing needs in a way that strengthens village life and supports long‑term sustainability.

“We will be keeping the community informed at key stages, so everyone understands what is happening and why - and engaging with residents to ensure local voices are heard and considered. By building a shared understanding of the benefits and working with the community together to realise them, we hope this project will deliver a collection of affordable homes this area so desperately needs.”

By creating the right conditions for families to live, work, and grow their businesses locally, the aim is to boost both social and economic wellbeing. And, in the longer term, help improve the viability of more frequent public transport through Harmans Cross, linking local villages and towns more effectively.”

Amanda Williams, Aster Group Chief Investment Officer, said: “Our focus is on strengthening village life by helping local people remain in, or return to, the area they call home.

“We want to support vibrant, mixed‑age communities and ensure our schools and local services thrive by enabling families to stay rooted here. It’s also important that more homes are lived in year‑round, rather than becoming second homes, so that villages such as Harmans Cross stay active and welcoming.”

Residents wishing to ask questions or contribute to the discussion should email: corfecastlecommunitylandtrust@gmail.com