A �1 MILLION housing development offering affordable homes has been unveiled in Axminster.

A �1 MILLION housing development offering affordable homes has been unveiled in Axminster.

Twelve houses and flats are to be built in Bonners Drive, managed by Sanctuary Shaftesbury, member of leading UK housing provider Sanctuary Group.

The development is also the work of East Devon District Council, the Homes and Communities Agency, BBH Architects, and contractors Halsall Construction.

Verena Womersley, Sanctuary's senior development manager said: "The new development at Bonners Drive will provide much needed affordable housing in the area, which will help local people stay in the region at an affordable price.

"Working in partnership, Sanctuary and East Devon District Council have worked hard to bring this development to fruition, providing new homes that the town of Axminster can be proud of."

The official opening took place at the site last week and visitors were taken on a tour of the new homes.

Councillor Jill Elson, EDDC's portfolio holder ommunities, said: "Providing affordable homes is top of the list of our seven corporate priorities and this reflects the seriousness with which the Council takes this issue.

"There are many second homes in East Devon, which pushes house prices up and makes it more difficult for local people to find a place of their own to rent or buy."

The development is designed and built to the latest standards in energy efficiency and sustainability, and includes eco features such as a rainwater recycling system and solar-heated hot water which will provide highly cost-effective energy facilities for Bonners Drive residents.