Canterbury council buys 67 new homes for social housing

A private housebuilding firm has agreed a new affordable homes deal with Canterbury City Council worth £9.45m.The purchase will enable the delivery of 67 new homes at The Woodlands development in Broad Oak, Canterbury, which will be made available for affordable rents.The partnership between Barratt David Wilson Homes and the city council is intended to help the local authority increase its housing stock and help to transform people’s lives.The Woodlands, which is located on Herne Bay Road, three miles outside of Canterbury, is a flagship development by Barratt David Wilson Kent, having provided homes for 121 households since its launch in summer 2022.The new partnership will provide 10 one-bedroom flats, 24 two-bedroom flats, four two-bedroom houses, and 29 three-bedroom houses.William Walsh, managing director for Barratt David Wilson Kent, said: “Working closely with councils plays a vital role in addressing the urgent need for more affordable homes in the community.“Housebuilders have the experience and expertise to deliver new homes at a scale and speed that can’t be easily achieved through other means and, crucially, ensure a number of residents will have access to safe and affordable housing options.“This agreement, which will see Canterbury City Council take on 67 homes at The Woodlands, is another step closer to delivering essential housing for the local community”Councillor Pip Hazelton, cabinet member for housing, said: “Built to high industry standards, these one- and two-bedroom flats and two- and three-bedroom houses, will be highly energy efficient EPC B, providing homes that will be warm and cosy with low maintenance costs for many years to come.“Our ambition is to provide social housing at affordable rent people will be proud to live in and to call home. It is no exaggeration to say this acquisition will transform dozens and dozens and dozens of lives. Research tells us a secure, warm, well-maintained home, has a positive impact on physical and mental health, higher levels of economic activity and greater community involvement.”Are you a social housing professional? Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to upload news stories, post job vacancies, and connect with colleagues on our secure social feed.