‘Community-designed homes’ fund launched

A SCHEME giving communities the physical ability to design their own, ‘affordable’ housing has been launched – but applying only in England.

Says a Westminster announcement, the scheme will give communities the facility to decide where and how the homes will be delivered, and is being supported by a fund totalling £4m.

The announcement goes on to say (here): “The £4 million Community Housing Fund (CHF) programme helps community groups build homes in their local area, by covering a range of costs incurred in the process – including renting the town hall for a public meeting, paying for searches, administration costs or legal advice, design work and planning applications.

“Once planning permission is granted, community groups can fund the build through the government’s Affordable Homes Programme, a Housing Association or developer or via a bank loan.

“The fund will help level up the country by regenerating derelict areas and delivering homes that are affordable for local people, so more residents can live in the places they love.”

Picture credit: Place Design Scotland