Springhill Cohousing is the first new build Cohousing Community in the UK and the first project of the Cohousing Company. The search for land started in 1999 and the site in Stroud was acquired in 2000. Very soon after, all the plots were pre-sold to members who designed the community and layout of their own houses/flats.
The principles of Cohousing are consensus decision making, pedestrianised estate, large common house for shared evening meals, private self-contained units.
The 35 houses, flats and studios are super-insulated, 20 houses have 49 kWp of PV solar panels, there is a car share scheme and the site is Town Centre. There are a number of committees eg. Kitchen, Garden, Parking, Disputes etc. which are mandated to make decisions. The idea is to reduce the number of large meetings and trust small groups to make decisions.
Joining is by self selection. The only criteria are that the new members agree with the principles of Cohousing and can afford to buy in. There are often rooms available for lodgers and houses and flats become available to rent or buy from time to time. Please register interest via the web site.
