Families on lower incomes are set to benefit from new affordable homes being developed at sites across the borough by Amber Valley Housing.
The affordable housing provider has announced a total of 19 new homes as part of its development programme.
The news comes as the National Housing Federation predicts that demand for social housing is set to grow by more than 200,000 families across the country by 2011 as a result of the recession.
The increase would take waiting lists to a record high of around two million nationally.
As development work at many new home sites slows, Amber Valley Housing is bucking the trend by forging ahead with its development programme.
The latest phase includes five, two-bedroom homes in Jacksdale, being developed by local builder Griffiths Homes; six homes at Ironville and five homes, including two supported housing units, at Riddings.
The housing association is also buying a further three, three-bedroom homes at the Wellbeck Close development in Somercotes, taking its total number of affordable homes at the site to 37.
The developments are being funded by Amber Valley Housing with support from Amber Valley Borough Council.
Paul Parkinson, executive director at Amber Valley Housing, said: “Demand for affordable housing in all parts of the country is expected to rise as a result of the recession.
“For this reason it is important that we continue to develop new homes to meet the growing needs and to support the local economy along the way. Levels of house building are falling as many private house builders stop work as a result of falling house prices.
“However we are committed to working with partners to support the delivery of new homes to help those on lower incomes. We are particularly pleased to be working with local builders, such as the project in Jacksdale.
“We continue to seek out new development opportunities, including looking at areas where land is available and can be used to provide much-needed accommodation.”
The majority of the homes being developed by Amber Valley Housing will be provided for affordable rent for those registered on the area’s Home Options scheme. The scheme ensures that those in greatest housing need are offered affordable housing as a priority. For more information and to see a list of current properties, visit www.home-options.org or call 01773 573100.
Some of the new homes are also available for shared ownership, meaning that buyers can purchase a share based on what they can afford to help them get onto the property ladder. For more information on shared ownership opportunities contact Amber Valley Housing on 01773 573100.
