An update on our development, sales and lettings activity
The number of affordable homes in our program has grown by 7 compared to 2020/21, showcasing our commitment to pursuing opportunities and forging partnerships with rural communities.
We're thrilled to share that we've increased our housing stock through new developments in Staple, Halstead (Kent), and Ashurstwood (Mid-Sussex). With 21 more schemes in the pipeline, we're committed to growing our presence in rural communities.
Our recently appointed Development Director is reinvigorating the team, focusing on our growth ambitions, and enhancing partnerships. We continue to prioritise rural exceptions sites, requiring collaboration between landowners, communities, and planning authorities.
Despite pandemic-related setbacks and fluctuating costs, we completed more homes this year and began constructing our first-ever EPC A-rated homes. Our Development Director is exploring new opportunities, with many homes under construction and set for completion next year.
Through our subsidiary, ER Homes Ltd, we unlock potential sites and generate cross-subsidy to make finances work. We offer various housing options, such as market, discounted market, and self-build opportunities, catering to diverse needs in rural communities. This year, ER Homes contributed £171k to support English Rural.
Our strong relationship with Homes England and our ability to secure grants continue to serve us well. Throughout the year, our development team reviewed the standard of homes provided, reflected in our updated development strategy. English Rural's excellent reputation relies on delivering quality, beautiful homes through community partnerships. Enhanced design and environmental standards will further this aim.
We'll also collaborate with like-minded rural housing associations to advance our purpose. Our development programme includes a moderate element of sales activity, featuring a small proportion of market sale homes built through ER Homes Ltd. Demand for these homes remains robust, driven by the thriving rural property market in areas where English Rural operates.
...with further schemes in the development pipeline
