LARKFLEET PROVIDES AFFORDABLE HOMES FOR LOCAL PEOPLE

LARKFLEET PROVIDES AFFORDABLE HOMES FOR LOCAL PEOPLE

Bourne (near Peterborough) based Larkfleet Homes (www.larkfleethomes.co.uk) has started work on building affordable homes at Harlaxton, near Grantham, which are being reserved exclusively for local people.

Larkfleet has designed and is building the 29 homes for Muir Group Housing Association. The development comprises a range of two or three bedroom houses and bungalows.

The development consists of both rented and shared ownership dwellings and homes will only be available to local people with a direct connection to the village.

Muir Group, a not-for-profit housing association, will manage the properties. South Kesteven District Council will nominate prospective tenants.

David Robinson, development director at Muir Group Housing Association, said: “Muir Group is delighted to be working in partnership with Larkfleet to provide these much needed affordable homes for local people.

“Rural communities are being torn apart by soaring house prices which prevent local people, especially the young, finding homes in their own village. Developments such as this can play a vital role in maintaining village communities.

“We hope this scheme will mark the start of a fruitful partnership with Larkfleet.”

Karl Hick, managing director of Larkfleet Group, said: "This development will help to meet the need for affordable housing in the area. It will also help to secure the economic future of the village, helping to provide customers for local services and homes for children who will use local schools.

“The homes themselves are built to demanding environmental standards which will, for example, reduce residents’ fuel bills because of the high levels of insulation. The whole development is designed to ensure residents live in a safe and friendly environment.”

This is one of a number of developments where Larkfleet is working closely with South Kesteven District Council to provide affordable housing.

Mandy Gee, partnership project officer at South Kesteven District Council, said: “Offering properties only to those who have a connection to the village helps keep communities together. Larkfleet appreciates the need for affordable housing which makes them a beneficial partner for us.”

Karl Hick added: “The council has been extremely helpful in its approach which has allowed us to develop much needed homes for local people who simply cannot afford to buy houses at current prices.”

To find out more about buying one of the new homes through shared ownership, call Elaine Catterall at Muir on 01928 728039.