Rural Housing Week shines a spotlight on council support for residential development
Wed 4th July 2018
East Riding of Yorkshire Council is working closely with communities across the region to help bring forward new housing, which is vitally important to ensuring the survival of rural settlements and services.
As part of Rural Housing Week (Monday, 2 to Friday, 6 July), the council is highlighting the number of ways it supports market towns and villages to deliver affordable rural housing - from its first community-led housing scheme in Walkington to building properties for sale as shared ownership in South Cave.
In Walkington, the council is assisting the Sherwood and Waudby Charity to build two properties on land it owns adjacent to The Mere.
The development is being part-funded through the council’s Community Housing Fund and by social lender The Charity Bank, which is intended to help communities build housing to meet local needs.
The two houses, which are being built by local construction company Cammack Builders, will be let on affordable rents to local families on low incomes.
George Southern, chair of the Sherwood and Waudby Charity, said: “I am delighted to see the Sherwood and Waudby Charity continue to play its part in the community life of Walkington, through committing itself to the start of this new housing scheme. It will provide much-needed affordable rented accommodation for local residents
“I am grateful to both the council and the Charity Bank in helping to fund the scheme and look forward to its successful completion next year.”
As well as housing for rent, the council is also developing residential dwellings for those trying to get on the property ladder.
Construction is currently underway on a scheme of 10 affordable homes at West End Farm Close, South Cave.
The new development consists of six three-bedroom properties and four two-bedroom properties and will be offered for sale as shared ownership.
Shared ownership allows qualifying buyers to purchase a share in the property of between 25% and 75% and pay a discounted rent on the remainder.
Councillor Symon Fraser, cabinet portfolio holder for strategic asset management, housing and environment at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “This development is the first of its kind by the council and recognises the growing demand from local residents for low-cost home ownership solutions.
“Shared ownership is an excellent way to help people who otherwise would be unable to afford to buy their own home.
“The development will target local residents through a sales policy which will prioritise households with a local connection to South Cave.”
The development of the South Cave scheme is part-funded by a £350,000 grant from Homes England and is being constructed by local contractor Hobson & Porter Ltd, working closely with neighbouring residents to keep them informed of the build progress. It is anticipated to be complete by spring 2019.
For more information about affordable housing, visit www.eastriding.gov.uk/council/plans-and-policies/other-plans-and-policies-information/housing-strategy/affordable-housing/
