Cllr Federica Smith Roberts cuts the ribbon at the Minehead development. Picture: Somerset Council

Generational-first West Somerset council house development officially opened

Paul JonesJanuary 15, 20260 Comment0

THE first new development of council houses in West Somerset for a generation has been officially opened.

Lead member for communities on Somerset Council, Cllr Federica Smith Roberts, cut the ribbon on the 54-homes scheme, in Rainbow Way, Minehead.

All of the eco-friendly homes – a mix of 33 flats and 21 houses – have been let to people with strong connections to the area, the council said.

The site, off Seaward Way, was identified by the former Somerset West and Taunton Council as a potential development plot and seen through by Somerset Council and development partner, Homes in Somerset.

Cllr Smith Roberts said: “We are all delighted to celebrate the opening of the Seaward Way/Rainbow Way development, a landmark moment for Minehead, bringing high-quality, zero-carbon homes to Somerset which residents deserve.”

Leader of Somerset Council, Cllr Bill Revans, was also on hand at the opening, and said: “The Seaward Way development opening marks the first council homes to come to the town in 30 years. This is a huge achievement by everyone involved, bringing the types of home to the area that residents can be proud of.”

The Rainbow Way development offers new council homes in Minehead. Picture: Somerset Council

Duncan Harvey, head of housing growth and regeneration at Homes in Somerset, added: “We’re thrilled to be celebrating the completion of this impressive new council housing project. Homes in Somerset is proud to have worked alongside Somerset Council to bring forward high-quality, energy-efficient homes that meet local need.

“Today’s success underlines our shared ambition to deliver more energy-efficient, affordable council owned homes across Somerset, creating great places, supporting local jobs and skills and improving residents’ health and wellbeing.

“We look forward to continuing this partnership with Somerset Council as they advance their ambitious housebuilding programme, helping to turn strategic commitments into real homes for Somerset people.”

The homes were built by Classic Builders and funded through the Council’s Housing Revenue Account (HRA), Homes England Grant Funding, Right to Buy receipts and developer contributions.