PEOPLE struggling to find somewhere to live in their own village have received a boost with the completion of 28 new homes.

The scheme providing affordable rental housing for local people has been officially opened in Cotford St Luke.

South Western Housing Society and Taunton Deane Borough Council celebrated the opening of the 28 homes on Wednesday.

Developed in partnership with the council and built by Kier Living, the project consists of eight three-bedroom houses; 16 two-bedroom houses; and four one-bedroom flats.

One of the houses is a 'lifetime home', designed to ensure comfortable living for the long term.

It provides accessible and adaptable accommodation that will allow tenants to stay in their homes for longer and give greater choice to disabled people.

The lifetime homes concept is based on five overarching principles - inclusivity, accessibility, adaptability, sustainability and good value.

The official opening was conducted by Andre Angelinetta, vice chairman of South Western Housing Society.

Speeches were also given by Donna Johnson, the society's chief executive, Cllr John Williams, leader of the Deane council.

Some of the society’s new tenants also joined the development partners and guests at the opening.

They all have a strong connection to the parish of Cotford St Luke and will be moving into their new homes from Monday (March 13).

Andre Angelinetta said: “We’re pleased to have worked in partnership with Taunton Deane Borough Council on this development and we look forward to continuing our work with the council to provide many more homes over the coming years in Taunton.”

Mr John Williams added: “The council is committed to providing affordable housing for those who need modern homes to rent.

"It has made significant investments in housing and is unique in building its own stock of affordable properties.

"Schemes like this are really important for Taunton Deane, providing affordable housing to meet local need.

"Working in partnership with housing associations, such as South Western Housing Society is key to delivering new affordable homes in the borough and these quality properties will be a boost to the rental market for local people.”

To be eligible for these properties applicants needed to be registered on Home Finder website and need to have a local connection to the parish of Cotford St Luke.