Delivering the types of homes communities need
A Phased Approach
We understand that communities wish to grow at a sustainable and proportionate rate to ensure their characters are retained and new affordable homes are prioritised for those who have a local connection.
Delivering larger sites in one phase will only deliver for the needs of today without thought to the needs of the future generations to come and those entering older age.
Communities can future proof development in their communities, allocating larger sites for development which are ring-fenced to plan and deliver housing in a number of phases, over an agreed period of time providing for the needs of today and those in, say, 10-years’ time. This ensures that communities get the right type of housing now as well as in the near future and provides flexibility.
For example, a teenager of 16-years of age, who has grown up in a small community, will unlikely be in a position to buy currently; but their situation could change dramatically over time and they might in 5-8 years’ time be better placed to purchase a home locally (e.g. by obtaining a degree, securing a reliable income and/or meeting a partner with whom they wish to buy a home).
Presently, many young adults are unable to return to their local home communities due to escalating house prices and a lack of suitable affordable homes.
By developing larger sites in phases, the next generation of homeowners could be given the opportunity to move back to their community close to family and would receive priority allocation because they would still meet the local connection criteria.
Separately, residents who are presently living in larger homes with their families, could look to downsize once that family has grown and left the nest; a planned phased development may offer them the opportunity to remain in their community but in a smaller home more suited to their needs at that point.
Understanding the demographics of individual communities will help us shape the type, style and models of housing offered during the various phases of delivery whilst also safeguarding against disproportionate rural expansion and sprawl.