The Isle of Wight Council is supporting its partners in the delivery of a new affordable housing scheme on the Island — the largest of its kind in several years.
A recent event at the Three Oaks development on the outskirts of Newport showcased the council’s commitment to the delivery of affordable housing, whether doing it themselves or supporting partners.
At the event, three new homes were constructed in a single day, demonstrating the potential of modern methods of construction (MMC) and the impressive capability of the local workforce.
Organised by Sovereign Network Group and their construction partner Captiva Homes, the event highlighted the progress of the 145 affordable homes project at Three Oaks.
The first homes are due to be ready for occupation from summer 2025 and anyone interested in one of the homes for rent should ensure they are registered on the Island Homefinder website.
Senior representatives from the council, including council Leader Councillor Phil Jordan and deputy leader and Cabinet member for housing, Councillor Ian Stephens, were present to witness this significant milestone.
Three Oaks is a priority project within the council’s broader strategy to meet the growing housing demands on the Island, especially in light of a 60 per cent increase in the need for temporary accommodation over the past two years.
The council's housing and planning teams have worked closely with Sovereign Network Group and Captiva Homes to ensure that the housing mix at Three Oaks meets local needs, including specific homes for larger families currently in council-provided temporary accommodation.
The development comprises 87 homes available for social rent and 58 for Shared Ownership, aimed at supporting the local community.
Councillor Stephens said:
"The shortage of affordable homes on our Island is a critical issue that demands innovative solutions and unwavering determination.
"The collaboration between Sovereign Network Group and Captiva Homes, with the support of the Isle of Wight Council, on the Three Oaks development exemplifies our commitment to the delivery of affordable new homes for our community.
"We must ensure that families, young people starting out on the housing ladder, and those struggling to find a place to live, whether rented or bought, have access to quality, affordable housing."
Attendees observed the staged assembly process, beginning with the ground floor panels being lifted into place in the morning, followed by first-floor cassettes, and culminating with the roofing structure in the afternoon.
The event also included a tour of the nearby Gibbs Timber Frame factory, providing insights into the off-site construction process that underpins MMC.
Additionally, six new jobs have been created at Gibbs Timber Frame as a result of the Three Oaks contract, emphasising the broader local economic benefits of new housebuilding.
Councillor Jordan added:
“Affordable housing being delivered on the Isle of Wight is a major priority for the council.
"Achieving this on a large scale requires innovation and close collaboration, and this event has been an excellent demonstration of both.
"It has also provided a vital platform to discuss the best ways forward with local stakeholders and see first-hand the impressive plans Sovereign Network Group and Captiva Homes have for Three Oaks.”
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