Affordable housing in rural areas
A lack of affordable housing options in rural communities has been a problem for many years. Incomes in rural areas tend to be lower than the regional average, yet rental costs and house prices have increased disproportionately, making it difficult for people working locally to rent or buy their own home in the village where they work or remain in the village after leaving the family home.
More affordable homes in small villages would allow local people of all ages to live and work in rural areas and would support the creation of sustainable communities.
Somerset Council is keen to support and advise rural communities and Parish Councils that wish to develop an affordable housing scheme for local people to meet the identified housing need.
The delivery of affordable housing is a big project to undertake and can be daunting. The Rural Housing Alliance has published a practical guide for parish councils which gives lots of information in terms of:
- Understanding and evidencing housing need: Housing Need Surveys
- Types of affordable housing
- Factors for a successful scheme
- Potential planning options for rural housing
- Organisations that can provide affordable housing
- Tips for positive community engagement
Somerset Council intends as far as possible to plan for meeting evidenced affordable housing need within or adjacent to rural settlements by identifying and prioritising sites for housing development through the site allocations process.
If you require further information please email affordablehousing@somerset.gov.uk
Exmoor National Park
Planning for affordable housing within Exmoor National Park is overseen by Exmoor National Park Authority. Please visit their Affordable housing webpage for full details.