As part of Rural Housing Week 2021, Cambridgeshire ACRE joined members of the Rural Housing Alliance in promoting a new Parish Councillors’ Guide to Affordable Housing which sets out how local affordable housing schemes can be developed.
The ACRE Network, of which Cambridgeshire ACRE is a member, believes that no one should be disadvantaged just because of where they live. This extends to being able to find a good quality affordable home. For too many people on low incomes in rural areas this is not possible and they are forced to move away. With their departure, the local shop loses custom, local businesses struggle to find workers, delivering services becomes more difficult and the informal social networks that support vulnerable members of the community fall away.
But, as the Covid pandemic has shown, rural communities are resilient, resourceful and supportive. It is this commitment to their community that has driven many parish and town councils to address the rural affordable housing challenges locally. Throughout this Guide you will find examples of where local councils have shown leadership, often with the support of a Rural Housing Enabler.
Through the Cambridgeshire Rural Affordable Housing Partnership, Cambridgeshire ACRE leads the development of affordable homes of local people within the County. Any local council interested in exploring bringing affordable housing to their community should contact Jenna Brame, Rural & Community-Led Housing Development Officer on 01353 865022 or email jenna.brame@cambsacre.org.uk.
