Rural Housing Week is taking place this week, focusing on the issues affecting rural housing and, in particular, the need to develop more affordable homes across the country.
Affordable housing plays a crucial part in helping to support local communities, enabling local people to continue living in the area near their friends and family. It helps to preserve the economic viability of the local economy by increasing demand for key services.
Average house prices in West Dorset are some of the highest in the country with figures show that in May 2015 they were around 40 per cent higher than the national average.
Private rent in the south west of England has increased by more than 10 per cent in the last 12 months; this is higher than the increase in London.
Cllr Anthony Alford, Leader of West Dorset District Council, said: “We recognise the need for more affordable housing and are working closely with local communities to raise awareness and deliver affordable housing across the district.”
With support from housing associations and local communities, the district council has been able to aid in the development of 74 rural affordable homes in villages such as Chideock, Toller Porcorum and Maiden Newton.
Around 100 new affordable homes in rural areas are already planned to be constructed in the coming years with the potential for more through the development of Community Land Trusts (CLTs).
CLTs are local organisations set up and run by ordinary people to develop and manage homes as well as other assets integral to that community, such as community enterprises or workspaces. The CLT’s main task is to make sure these homes are genuinely affordable and based on what people actually earn in their area, not just for now but for every future occupier.
West Dorset has eight CLTs, one of the highest numbers in the country. Areas such as Lyme Regis and Powerstock have established CLTs and are on their way to developing affordable homes for local people.
The district council provides support to communities working to establish CLTs.
If you’re interested in developing a Community Land Trust, please contact West Dorset District Council’s Housing Enabling Team at[email protected]
If you’re interested in affordable housing in West Dorset please contact [email protected]
