Award-winning architects will present an illustrated talk exploring creative solutions to Bridport's housing crisis this evening at 7pm.

James Binning and Giles Smith of Assemble Studio have been investigating approaches that use local sustainable materials and support small businesses in the local economy. The Turner Prize winners have received funding from the Arts Council, following the success of their work with the Granby 4 Streets community land trust in Liverpool.

The talk is organised by a partnership including Dorset Woodhub, Bridport Town Council, Wessex Community Assets, Dorset AONB, the Arts Development Company and Common Ground. It will be an opportunity for local residents to respond to Assemble's initial ideas and plans.

David Dixon, community initiatives manager at Bridport Town Council, said: "We need housing development that is affordable, zero carbon, uses sustainable materials and supports businesses in the local economy. We are very fortunate to have Assemble working with the community in the Bridport area to explore the very real crisis in housing."

He added: "The talk is part of a series of events being promoted by Dorset Woodhub, a new community enterprise set up to promote active woodland management and creation, and increased use of local timber products. Dorset Woodhub has been supported by Wessex Community Assets, which works with community led housing projects across Dorset."

The Bridport Area Housing Needs Assessment shows that there are more than 400 households on the local authority's housing waiting list within the area.

A spokesperson from the Bridport Area Neighbourhood Plan said: "What local people need most is housing which is affordable. Although there is a supply of new homes on the open market, evidence shows that most households would need to triple their income to buy a modest house on a mortgage, and that to rent privately would take at least half their income."

The talk, entitled Raise the Roof, will take place at Bridport LSi, and entry is free. It will be followed by a discussion and refreshments. Places can be booked in advance by searching for the event on Eventbrite.