BRIDESTOWE and Sourton parishioners are being asked to share their thoughts on the need for low cost and affordable homes in the area.

The two parishes are asking for their parishioners’ help in calculating the number of low cost or affordable homes that are required by local people, who want to stay in the area but cannot afford market value housing, or perhaps the elderly who would like to downsize but can’t find anything suitable within the two parishes.

The two parishes would like to ensure that in future any new housing developments that will inevitably be built, include homes that local people can afford to buy or rent.

To find out what the demand is, a housing needs survey is being sent out in the next week to every household in the parishes. The survey has been paid for by Bridestowe and Sourton Neighbourhood Planning Group, which is putting together a neighbourhood plan for the two parishes.

Sue Eberle, Sourton parish councillor and a member of the neighbourhood planning group, said: ‘Everyone within the two parishes is asked to complete the form regardless of their need. This will make it possible to calculate what the present housing stock is.

‘The results should highlight what kinds of housing are in short supply. There are two extra sections, one for the elderly and one for the young to fill in should they wish to be considered for low cost or affordable homes.

‘Bridestowe and Sourton Neighbourhood Planning Group, which has raised the funds necessary to pay for the survey, hopes for a good turnout.’

The questionnaire is being sent out by an independent not-for-profit organisation called Devon Communities Together. The questionnaire includes a stamped addressed envelope so that the questionnaires can be sent directly back to Devon Communities Together.

The information contained in the forms will be completely confidential and no details other than the outcome of the survey will be given to Bridestowe and Sourton parishes.