When we talk about building stronger, fairer, and more sustainable communities, the question isn’t just what we build — but who we build it for.
That’s where Community Land Trusts (CLTs) come in.
Across the UK, CLTs are changing the way towns and villages think about housing, ownership, and development — and Thrift Soham Community Land Trust is proud to be part of that growing movement.
Understanding a Community Land Trust
A Community Land Trust (CLT) is a not-for-profit, community-led organisation that owns land and assets for the benefit of local people.
Rather than being controlled by private developers or outside investors, a CLT ensures that the land stays in community ownership — forever.
In simple terms, a CLT:
- Acquires and manages land to deliver affordable housing or community facilities;
- Ensures long-term affordability by removing land from the speculative market.
- Reinvests income locally, keeping value in the community; and
- It is run by residents, who elect trustees and make key decisions democratically.
At its heart, a CLT gives people control over the places they live, the homes they need, and the future they want to build together.
The Thrift Soham Approach
Formed as a legal entity in 2014, Thrift Soham CLT was established to empower local people to take charge of Soham’s growth.
We aim to provide high-quality, energy-efficient, and affordable homes, while also protecting land and community spaces from speculative development.
By owning land collectively, we ensure that:
- Homes remain affordable not just now, but for future generations.
- Any income from developments is reinvested directly into the community, and
- Soham retains its local character and sense of belonging as it grows.
Our projects aren’t just about housing — they’re about building opportunity, fostering inclusion, and strengthening local resilience.
Why It Matters to Soham
Soham is a town with deep roots and a strong sense of community spirit.
But like many small towns, it faces growing pressure from rising housing costs, rapid development, and limited affordable options for local families.
Thrift Soham CLT offers a practical, people-first solution — one that protects what makes Soham special while ensuring everyone has a place to call home.
By holding land in trust for the community, we make sure that our assets benefit local people forever — not just for the next housing cycle.
A Community Effort
Our Trust is run by volunteers and backed by Soham Town Council, East Cambridgeshire District Council, and CLT East, which supports community-led housing initiatives across the region.
Our trustees bring decades of experience from government, local housing, business, and community service — all united by a shared vision:
to make Soham a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive town for generations to come.
The Future We’re Building
At Thrift Soham, we see land not just as property, but as a shared community resource.
Our work ensures that land remains in local hands, homes remain affordable, and the community remains at the heart of every decision.
The CLT model proves that when local people lead the way, real and lasting change becomes possible.
Together, we can build a Soham that works for everyone — where every home, every partnership, and every project strengthens the fabric of our town.
Get Involved
You can help shape the future of Soham.
Whether you’re a resident, a local business, or simply passionate about community-led development, your involvement matters.
📩 Join us today — Register Your Interest or reach out at clerk@thriftsoham.org.uk to learn how you can take part in the work of Thrift Soham CLT.
Together, we can build a stronger, fairer, and more sustainable Soham.
