Dunne supports Community Land Trust in Bishop’s Castle

Philip Dunne MP joined in celebrations for the symbolic cutting the first sod for the proposed two new affordable houses being built by the Bishop’s Castle & District Community Land Trust on Friday.

Mr Dunne joined Shropshire Councillor Peter Phillips, Mayor Keith Pinches and Community Land Trust Directors Jim Gaffney and Jonathan Brown in witnessing two students from Bishop’s Castle Community College bury symbolic coins minted in 2010 under the foundations of the new houses.

Two affordable houses will be constructed, starting on Monday when the contractor Pen-y-Coed from Welshpool commences work.

The buildings have been designed by architect Jonathan Grieg who has generously helped make the plot available, and construction will be built to high sustainable environmental standards.

Mr Dunne said: “I have been supportive of the Bishop’s Castle & District Community Land Trust since it was first mooted 5 years ago. This is a huge landmark for the town in leading the way in showing how affordable housing can be delivered by local people working together. While it is of small scale, there are already opportunities to build on this success in Bishop’s Castle and I look forward to welcoming the first occupants when the houses are finished next year.”

Photo: Mayor Keith Pinches turns the first sod for Bishop’s Castle & District Community Land Trust