Somerset Council will highlight the shortage of affordable homes in rural areas throughout Rural Housing Week, running from today, 7th July to 11th July.
High property prices, limited private rentals and low wages have contributed to the ongoing housing crisis in rural parts of the county.
As a result, fewer people, especially younger families, are choosing to stay in these communities.
The council’s Affordable Housing Team supported the delivery of 111 affordable homes in rural Somerset in 2024.
The team will work with housing partners and developers on several new projects aimed at providing more homes for low-income families, young professionals and elderly residents in rural areas.
Sarah Wakefield, lead member for adults services, housing and homelessness at Somerset Council, said: “We are working hard to increase the number of affordable homes in Somerset’s rural communities because we understand the importance of accessing housing for our residents.”
“This is particularly important for younger people of working age who we know are being impacted in their ability to get on the housing ladder due to the cost-of-living crisis.
“Our efforts cannot be funded solely by the Council and, although we have excellent partnerships with local housing providers, much of our future progress will rely on a significant increase of financial support from central Government.”
Wakefield added: “While the Government’s recent spending review’s commitment to boost funding for Local Authorities is encouraging, the specifics of how this additional funding will translate into more homes in Somerset remain unclear, especially since their focus seems to be on urban areas.”
