Grant paves the way for new affordable homes
July 30, 2021
Two families are now starting a life in new homes in the heart of the National Park after the Authority provided funding to help secure affordable housing.
The Authority helped to secure a grant of £60,000 for the Midhurst Community Land Trust, which is a not-for-profit organisation established with the aim of making housing in the Midhurst area more affordable to local people.
The Affordable Housing Grant, along with other funding, has resulted in a reduction of rental levels to 70 per cent of market rates, as well as enabling them to offer in-perpetuity leases.
Gill Welsman, Planning Project Management Officer, explained: “A key factor in the success of this scheme has been early engagement with the Authority.
“The Trust initially identified an opportunity to buy two new homes in the centre of Midhurst and consequently sought advice from the Authority in order to progress and inform their project.
“By engaging in discussions with the Authority at an early stage the Trust were able to check and review the design and sustainability criteria for the dwellings, as well as inform their funding strategy.
“This early engagement ensured the homes were secured through a S106 agreement.
“Following the submission of an Affordable Housing Grant application, funding was transferred upon practical completion in May 2021, with the new residents moving into their new homes in early June. A fantastic success story for planning and we wish the families all the best for the future.”
Adrian Moore, Chairman of Midhurst Community Land Trust, said: “Without the SDNPA grant, this project would not have been possible.”
Gill added: “With the potential for similar organisations to secure funding through the Affordable Housing Grants, we hope to be able to support additional projects across the National Park.”
Further information on our Affordable Housing Grants and guidance on developing affordable homes is available by contacting affordablehousing@southdowns.gov.uk