News

16/02/2010   HARAH steps up new affordable homes completions in rural villages

HARAH completed 69 new homes for local people in 2009. The homes were built in Hurstbourne Tarrant, Stockbridge, Preston Candover, Charter Alley, Grateley, Monxton, Littleton and Swanmore.

Many rural villages have a desperate shortage of affordable homes, which means that often people who were brought up or work in the village cannot afford to live there. This has an impact on the local economy as without their local users and local staff, businesses and services, including shops, schools, post offices, pubs and village halls struggle to survive.

Our affordable housing is either rented or shared ownership/shared equity. The homes are strictly for local people and the local connection criteria are specified in a legal agreement attached to the planning permission (called a Section 106 agreement).  

Rural Exception Site Policy enables small sites to be used specifically for affordable housing in small rural communities where there is a need for affordable homes for local people.

We work closely with the parish council and local community in identifying local housing need, choosing a suitable site, drawing up the design and throughout the building contract. The size of the scheme reflects the local need but is usually between 4 and 14 homes.

If you own or know of a potential site, please contact the Rural Housing Enablers (details below) as they may be looking for a site in your village.

Contact the Rural Housing Enablers through John Lancaster on 01962 857363.