More than 700 new affordable homes have been negotiated for the Babergh district within the last four years – smashing Babergh’s original target by seven per cent.
In 2004, Babergh pledged to achieve 700 new, affordable homes built or in the development pipeline for the district by April 2009.
Figures show that target has already been exceeded – six months before the cut-off date - and Babergh is now looking at revising its target figure.
Between April 1 2004 and Sept 30 2008, Babergh has achieved:
• Completion of 386 homes for affordable rent and shared ownership.
• 84 more homes currently under construction.
• A further 285 homes already granted planning permission.
• Making a total of 755 new, affordable homes secured in the district in the last four years.
Cllr Sue Wigglesworth, Chair of Babergh’s Housing Panel, said: “We set ourselves the ambitious target of 700 new affordable homes in five years – and it is remarkable that we have, in fact, gone beyond that number.
“This success is due to the investment that Members agreed to and the dedication of officers in working tirelessly with its partnering housing associations, developers, the Housing Corporation and also with Parish Councils to achieve the spread of new homes across the district.
“We will continue to encourage communities to consider their role in helping us to identify local needs.”
And Ian Tippett, Babergh’s Strategic Housing Manager, added: “Babergh is really pleased with what it has achieved with its affordable housing programme – and has exceeded its target by seven per cent within an exceptionally short timescale.
“We know that local people need, and want, these types of homes and that is why providing more affordable housing is such a high priority. Making sure there are affordable homes not only gives people security but it also makes sure rural communities keep their vitality and sustainability.
“Of course we had hoped to achieve more but with the current uncertainty in the housing market that may not be as possible as first thought. Nevertheless we will keep on pushing for more affordable housing for Babergh.” ENDS
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