A RECORD number of affordable homes have been built in the district in the past year.
Stratford District Council confirmed 377 new affordable homes were built – nearly all by the council’s partner housing associations, and almost three-quarters of the homes were for rent.
But Stratford remains one of the most expensive places to buy a home in the country, with prices continuing to rocket. The cheapest ten per cent of homes in the town cost some £230,000 in 2016 – up £58,000 on the previous year.
Council leader Tony Jefferson said: “Last year’s record achievement is a reflection of the district council’s long-standing commitment to providing more affordable homes for local people and our local communities.
“Our district is a great place in which to live and work.
“But, sadly, the reality for many people is that they’re priced out of the local housing market to the detriment of our local economy and our local communities.
“To tackle this, the council has been working hard with its partners over many years to get the homes we desperately need built and last year’s figure is also a reflection of the good working relationships we’ve built with our partners.
“Despite a substantial reduction in funding available at national level, as well as other changes, the fact that we were able not only increase the overall number of new homes built last year but also maintain their quality is of great importance to the district council.”
Affordable houses were built across a number of developments including in Alcester, Wellesbourne, Shipston, Bidford, Napton, Gaydon and Stratford.
Three housing schemes also included accommodation for those with learning and physical disabilities, with another intended for the elderly.
Housing spokesperson Coun Daren Pemberton added it was not just about ‘numbers’ but ensuring the right type of homes were built in the right places, were of good quality and genuinely affordable to those who needed them.
