A network of independent advisors has helped create a pipeline of over 2,000 affordable homes across England.
Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE), working with 34 local network members, delivered the Government-backed programme through Rural Housing Enablers (RHEs).
House prices have risen by 29% in rural areas over the last five years, compared to a 21% increase in urban locations.
The lower-quartile income to house price ratio stood at 8.8 in rural areas, compared to 7.6 in urban areas.
An independent evaluation found that RHEs established 227 potential rural housing schemes over two years, which could deliver more than 2,100 affordable homes.
The report also found that the work of RHEs has tripled the social value of every pound invested.
Corinne Pluchino, CEO of ACRE, said: “The benefits of the RHE Programme and the crucial role RHEs play in supporting local communities and spearheading partner engagement and trust are clearly shown in the report.
“The structure of the programme, which enables us to facilitate peer to peer support and knowledge exchange across the RHE network, is making a significant impact.”
“RHEs also have a vital role to play in helping raise awareness among communities, parish councils and other local bodies about Rural Exception Sites which, while key to unlocking rural affordable housing, are underused and commonly misunderstood.”
Pluchino added: “RHEs also help to bring communities together to identify the extent of local need and help to ensure they can work together to tackle the affordable rural housing crisis in this country.”
