Turning a derelict nursery site into social-rent homes.
The brief
Bicclescombe Nursery is a community-led affordable housing development in Ilfracombe, Devon. Poltair is building 16 homes for Aster Homes and Ilfracombe Community Land Trust, all for social rent.
The mix comprises eight two-bedroom houses, two three-bedroom houses and six one-bedroom maisonette-style flats, providing homes for individuals, couples and families.
What the project needed
The former nursery had been derelict since 1995. The project brings that site back into use for housing, responding to the need for affordable homes in Ilfracombe.
Poltair’s approach
Work began in March 2026 on an approximately 14-month construction programme.
The development includes landscaping, wildflower areas and a bespoke bat house.
Progress towards new homes
16 social-rent homes on a site that had been derelict since 1995.
By August 2026, timber frames and brickwork were being installed. Representatives from the community land trust, Aster and North Devon Council visited the site and were pleased with progress.
Completion is expected by the end of spring 2027.