The small town of Hythe in Hampshire is poised for a significant transformation as construction commences on an ambitious affordable housing development. Spearheaded by the Dorset-based AJC Group, this £6.8 million project is designed to address the pressing housing needs of the local community by providing 22 new homes. The development will feature a diverse mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments, as well as two- and three-bedroom houses, ensuring a range of options for prospective residents.
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This initiative is being undertaken on behalf of the New Forest District Council, which has identified a critical shortage of affordable housing in the area. AJC Group Director, David Cracklen, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We’re pleased to be commencing construction at this key housing site in Hythe, our second live affordable development in the New Forest. These homes will help to fill a gap in the social housing offering; indeed we know that the New Forest area is crying out for more affordable housing, and we’re proud to be part of the solution.”
The Hythe development is an integral part of AJC Group’s broader mission to construct 500 new affordable homes over the next five years. The company’s commitment to alleviating the housing crisis in the New Forest area is palpable, and the support from the New Forest District Council has been instrumental in making this project a reality. Cracklen remarked, “It is encouraging to see the New Forest District Council adopt such a forward-thinking approach, in order to provide an opportunity for local people to own a home in this area of Hampshire which they have previously been priced out of.”
The realisation of this £6.8 million scheme has been facilitated through a combination of capital funding from the district council, Homes England, and the Brownfield Land Release Fund. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of partnerships in addressing the housing crisis and ensuring that affordable housing projects can move forward seamlessly.
A distinctive feature of this development is its emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability. The homes have been meticulously designed to blend with the local architectural vernacular, creating an attractive street scene that harmonises with the existing properties in the vicinity. Furthermore, the development will incorporate a new green public space, complete with a play area and ample new planting to enhance and protect the local wildlife. This commitment to sustainability is a testament to the project’s dedication to creating a positive impact on both the environment and the community.
District councillor and housing portfolio holder, Steve Davies, expressed his satisfaction with the project’s progress, stating, “After a rigorous and competitive process, AJC Group has been selected to build this scheme for us; our third development to meet the full Future Homes Standard. It’s great that work has started, and I look forward to seeing the homes taking shape over the coming months.”
The Future Homes Standard is a set of regulations aimed at improving the energy efficiency of new homes, reducing carbon emissions, and ensuring that new builds are equipped to meet the challenges of climate change. By adhering to these standards, the Hythe development is setting a benchmark for future housing projects in the area.
As construction progresses, the local community can anticipate the completion of these much-needed affordable homes. The development is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy, creating jobs and stimulating growth in the area. Moreover, the availability of affordable housing will enable more people to live and work in Hythe, contributing to the town’s overall prosperity.
The commencement of construction on the new affordable housing development in Hythe represents a pivotal milestone in addressing the housing needs of the local community. With its focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and community enhancement, this £6.8 million project is poised to make a lasting positive impact on the town and its residents. The collaboration between AJC Group, the New Forest District Council, Homes England, and the Brownfield Land Release Fund serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when stakeholders work together towards a common goal. As the homes take shape over the coming months, the people of Hythe can look forward to a brighter, more affordable future.
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