We are a network of individuals wanting to create and live in cohousing projects in Dorset.

DORSCOH are working in partnership with the Rural Renewal Company, a Dorset-based social enterprise which will act as a development partner and consultant for the project, having been deeply involved in the Threshold centre, a pilot cohousing project in North Dorset. .We are also working closely with Synergy, the largest housing association in Dorset, as our preferred social housing provider. We are currently seeking to extend our contacts with sympathetic local authorities and site owners, and to expand our membership of potential residents.

OUR VISION

We aim to create a cohousing community of 20-50 units in the Bridport-Weymouth area, with a diversity of age, income and household size.

We want to live and demonstrate a low-impact lifestyle, including zero-carbon buildings, growing much of our own food, and sharing resources to minimise private car use.

 We will have community space for us and the local neighbourhood, visitor accommodation, and an education programme.  We will live independently, but within an informal community which offers us fun, growth and mutual support, built on good group skills and shared values - including not working too hard!

Features of the Dorscoh project

Dorscoh are seeking to create a cohousing scheme in Dorset within the next 1-4 years. Whilst the scale and facilities would be tailored to the site and surrounding community, the typical target features would include:

1. 20-50 units of housing: built to Ecohomes Excellent as a minimum, and aiming for zero emissions. Unit sizes would range from 1-room studios to family houses.
2. A high level of social housing provision, both rental and shared ownership. Both Synergy and the Housing Corporation regard cohousing as a highly beneficial new form of social housing provision.
3. Community market garden: space on site or within an easy walk where both cohousing residents and others can grow food.
4. Guest accommodation would be provided for educational visitors, eco-tourism, and residents.
5. Workspaces: small office and studio spaces with support services where possible.
6. Community facilities: the project would provide a range of facilities and services for the whole of the host community: such as a car club, playgroup, special interest groups, and the community market garden.
7. Education programmes: these would range from short guided tours through weekend workshops to longer internships. The experience of other cohousing projects has shown there is high demand for such programmes.

A key aim of the project is to provide substantial social and economic benefits to the surrounding community also.

Dorscoh is currently seeking new members who can give a couple of days a month of their time, and who support the goals and ethos of cohousing. We can give in return a supportive and dynamic environment,  opportunities for training and dual learning and knowledge that you are helping to bring to fruitition a concept whose time is surely to come.

If you would like to learn more then please contact us using the details on this website.