Down on the Farm

The latest phase of the Dowd’s Farm development was officially opened this week. In this penultimate phase, Swaythling Housing Society, part of Radian, has provided another 62 much needed affordable homes for the local community. The final stage has now commenced and once completed, the development will boast 765 homes, of which 230 will be available for affordable rent and shared ownership.

As with all Radian new-builds, consideration has focussed on environmental impact and Dowd’s Farm has achieved an Eco Home rating of ‘very good’. The land it is built on was formerly a green field site and much work has been done to minimalise the disturbance to the existing wildlife on site. These concessions even include one of the blocks of flats containing a ‘bat void’ which provides a safe environment for bats to roost.

In addition to the residential facilities on site, Dowd’s Farm also includes a new Primary School, a new 16 acre park and there are plans for a Community Centre. The site was developed in partnership with Eastleigh Borough Council and all homes comply with the Homes & Communities Agency funding conditions.

“The results of this project so far has been a combined investment of over £13million in the local economy but most importantly, the creation of homes that people want to live in and a major contribution to what we all hope will become a strong and vibrant community. Swaythling has an on-going commitment to do all that we can to help residents make this happen.” Ralph Facey, Director, Swaythling Housing Society