Planning permission has been granted and construction commenced on three new almshouses for Budleigh Salterton.
Planning permission has been granted and construction commenced on three new almshouses for Budleigh Salterton.
An Overview
A new local charity, The Shandford Trust, has purchased a site, obtained planning permission and commenced work on the construction of three new-build almshouses in Budleigh Salterton next to Seachange, the local health and well-being hub. The first residents will be welcomed at the beginning of 2026.
What are almshouses? What is their significance in modern times?
Almshouses are a charitable form of self-sufficient, low-cost community housing that is held in trust for local people in housing need. They are managed and run by almshouse charities made up of local volunteers.
Today, 36,000 people in the UK are living full and independent lives in almshouses, finding friendships, wellbeing, safety and security inside their walls and within their communities. For more details see www.almshouses.org .
Why build almshouses in Budleigh Salterton?
There is a clear need for more social housing in Budleigh and its surrounding villages. Almshouses have been shown to provide an excellent part-solution to this problem. For more information see detailed Q and As at the Shandford Trust website www.theshandfordtrust.org.uk . (Follow the Find out more link on the home page.)
Timetable of significant events
Current activity. Site clearance.
June 2025. ‘Digger Day’. The foundations are laid.
First quarter 2026. ‘Topping Out Day’. Build complete.
Spring 2026. First residents receive their keys on ‘Ribbon Cutting Day’.

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