By Isle of Wight Observer
A £500,000 grant from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust is set to help the IW council build its first new homes in years with veterans at the heart of the project.
The funding, awarded through the Veterans’ Capital Housing Fund, will support the development of four one-bedroom flats on New Street, in central Newport. The site, already in council ownership, benefits from easy access to local shops, transport links and essential services. This initiative comes in response to a sharp rise in housing applications from veterans between 2022 and 2024, highlighting the urgent need for tailored support.
The new homes will offer long term, secure tenancies at affordable rents providing much-needed stability and dignity for those who have served in the armed forces.
The site has been readied through the Brownfield Land Release Fund, and discussions with planners are already underway ahead of a formal application.
Veterans living on the Island already benefit from regular outreach and drop in sessions, and this new housing aims to deepen that sense of community and belonging.
Cllr Ian Stephens, deputy leader and cabinet member for housing, said: “This is more than just a housing project, it’s about restoring lives and recognising service.”
Cllr Julie Jones-Evans, local ward member, added: “These homes will offer both shelter and a sense of community. It’s a superb use of space right in the heart of Newport.”
The council is a signatory of the armed forces covenant.
