Here to help!

Building your own house is a step too far for a lot of people- not helped by the popular Grand Designs programme, highlighting potential pitfalls for the unwary and unprepared.

However, help is at hand- yes, well of course us- but Grant Shapps, Housing Minister, recently underlined a government commitment to self-build housing by individuals and community groups (residents associations, private house companies etc.)

With the release of publicly-owned land in tandem with the Build Now Pay Later Scheme and on-going Localism Bill, It’s clear the coalition is keen on promoting community spirit, enablement and action, alongside private companies to create more community housing schemes.

As a committed community architecture practice and long enough in the tooth to remember the late 70’s exploration of much needed funding, we await further developments to advice potential community groups and individuals on:

a) Land availability

b) Finance incentives

c) The route through legislation to create community housing- Much needed throughout the country but particularly in Merton

Keep in touch and feel free to join the debate in action!

....And don’t be skeptical... go to www.gloucestershirelandforpeople.coop for the potential.