A landmark deal has been struck to create the first-ever affordable housing development of its kind on Portland, Dorset.

Dorchester-based Koori Limited, part of the Redtale Group, has partnered with Portland Community Land Trust (CLT) and East Boro Housing Trust (EBHT), a division of Aster Group, to deliver nine affordable homes at the former Southwell Primary School site.

The properties, designed for locals, will be rented at below-market rates and will not be available as second homes or holiday lets, ensuring long-term community benefit. This trailblazing project marks the first CLT scheme on the island, with the aim of addressing the increasing demand for affordable housing.

The development is part of Koori’s £15 million May Bower Gardens project, which is set to transform the 1.3-hectare site. The first phase, including the CLT homes, is scheduled for completion in autumn, with residents expected to move in by Christmas.

Koori Limited, which has provided the land and will construct the homes, has signed a contract with Portland CLT and EBHT.

Malcolm Curtis, Chief Executive of Redtale Group, said: “We’re pleased to support this pioneering project. These homes will reflect the high-quality and sustainable standards we uphold, using local materials such as Portland Stone and employing local tradespeople.”

The homes, a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom properties, will be managed by EBHT on behalf of Portland CLT.

The CLT will retain the freehold, ensuring the properties remain affordable for future generations. CLTs are a form of community-led housing, set up to provide long-term affordable homes within their localities.

Kevin Hodder, Director of Partnership and Engagement at Aster Group, expressed excitement about the collaboration: “CLTs are a brilliant way to deliver much-needed affordable housing. We’re excited to work with Portland CLT and Koori to make this a reality.”

The May Bower Gardens project will feature 48 homes in total, including the nine CLT properties, all built with energy-efficient designs and technologies.

Gill Taylor, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Health and Housing, highlighted the importance of the project: “This development demonstrates our commitment to providing affordable homes for local people.”

The full development is expected to be completed by 2027.