Five years in the planning, Great Shelford’s £4.4M almshouse development is now complete and has welcomed its first residents.

The 21 new homes, a mix of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units, are grouped in three curved terraces surrounding a central green. Equipped with air source heat pumps, mechanically ventilated heat recovery systems, triple glazing and high levels of insulation, the homes are designed to minimise energy consumption and keep residents’ running costs low.

“Ever since our initial public meeting in July 2018 at which we outlined the need for further affordable housing in Great Shelford, we have been working closely with villagers and both parish and district councillors to bring this project to fruition. And I would particularly like to thank the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority for their generous grant of just over £1M towards the development cost,” said Sarah Rann, Chair of the Parochial Charities trustees.

Alongside the new development the charity has planted some 250 native trees and laid out allotments, a community garden, footpaths and benches, providing enhanced public access to the 8 acres of land it owns on the northern edge of the village.

The new development brings to 53 the total number of almshouse homes managed by Great Shelford Parochial Charities, providing affordable accommodation for villagers on low incomes and in housing need.

The trustees plan to hold a formal opening later in the year.