Housing chiefs say they are adopting ‘innovative new ways of working’ to meet the demand for affordable homes.
As well as providing financial assistance to first-time buyers, the government’s housing division works with local housing authorities, planners, developers and construction professionals to influence the supply of new-build and refurbished properties.
Almost £70m has been invested in public sector housing and more than £6m provided in financial assistance to first-time buyers.
Since 2011, approaching 500 affordable homes have been built. Half this total has been additional properties for first-time buyers and public sector tenants, and half replacement housing for substandard public sector properties.
Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne MHK said: ‘The department is fully committed to helping people find a suitable place to live.
‘We are working with developers through the planning and design stages of new developments to ensure we can achieve the range of properties needed to satisfy local demand. This also includes the flexibility to change the type of house in response to market conditions. The latest successes include homes at Shipyard Road in Ramsey, Ballakilley in Port Erin, Ballawattleworth in Peel and Cronk Cullyn in Colby.’
For further information about affordable housing visit the government website {https://www.gov.im/categories/home-and-neighbourhood/affordable-housing/|here}