believe housing will soon welcome customers onto a new development on the edge of Durham – where the need for affordable homes is growing.
The housing association has seen very high demand for its first five homes off Bent House Lane, which is just two miles from the city centre and has both countryside and local amenities within easy reach.
“We knew this site would be exceptionally popular because we’re providing high quality affordable homes, in a place where people want to live,” said Kate Abson, Director of Development at believe housing.
“It is well connected for drivers and by public transport and within walking distance of many places of work, essential services, and the shops, culture and leisure Durham has to offer, as well as having open countryside on the doorstep.”
believe housing recently got the keys to two bungalows and three houses from developer Barratt Homes, and customers who successfully applied for one through the Durham Key Options lettings service are moving in soon.
The first three two-bed houses it advertised for affordable rent received 183 bids. And, with almost a quarter of people on the waiting list for this area needing to move home for medical reasons, there was no surprise that its first two two-bed bungalows on the site were just as popular.
By 2029 believe housing will have 70 homes in this area, all available for affordable rent. They will be spread equally across Miller Home’s Bishops Walk site and Barratt Homes’ Old Durham Gate, where the two developers are building a total of 470 new homes.
Kate added: “We are seeing demand increase year on year in this area, with almost 1,000 people on our register saying they want to live here.
“In response to that local housing need, we will gradually be able to offer more people the home they need and aspire to live in while contributing to a vibrant community.”
Carl Sobolewski, Managing Director at Barratt Homes North East, said: “We are pleased to welcome the new tenants into the affordable homes at the new Old Durham Gate development, which come as part of our S106 contributions.
“All of the homes on site integrate Part L energy efficiency standards, which enable homeowners to make significant savings on their energy bills whilst benefiting from sustainability and eco-friendly living.
“We hope that the new tenants enjoy their new home, and we look forward to seeing the community grow further.”
Lauren Angus, Sales Director at Miller Homes North East, said: “This is a fantastic site which appeals to so many people whether that’s for family or work reasons, to retire, or simply to be close to everything Durham has to offer.
“As the development takes shape, we are delighted to be working with believe housing to provide the right mix of homes the community needs.”
Feedback from customers led to believe housing updating its approach on how much is paid when someone deliberately or carelessly causes damage to their home or leaves it in an unfit state.
Colleagues at believe housing have shown plenty of festive spirit to support two good causes.
Volunteers who saved a village church from closure have completely transformed it into a cherished community venue.
When it’s cold outside and the cost of living continues to affect many of us, it’s good to know where you can find a warm welcome.
