Fordham Local Needs Homes Update
Background
In 2018, Fordham Parish Council supported a parish wide housing needs survey (posted to every household) by an independent Rural Housing Enabler (RHE) from the Rural Community Council of Essex (RCCE). This survey identified that there is a need for a small number of homes for local people in Fordham. It also evidenced that there was good support for a small development of affordable homes for local people (85% in favour) and as a result, the Parish Council, Hastoe Housing Association and RCCE, have been exploring how a small scheme of affordable homes for local people could be brought forward.
‘Local’ generally means a person who is;
- Currently resident in the parish
- Was previously resident in the parish
- Is permanently employed in the parish
- Is connected by close family still living in the parish
The aim of affordable housing is to provide homes for people who cannot afford to buy or rent a home on the open market. New affordable homes help sustain communities by offering local families, couples and single people the chance to stay living in the place where they have strong connections. This can be those who aspire to their first / independent home or those who wish to downsize.
Proposal & Public Consultation
The site on Rams Farm Road was identified and Hastoe has been working with architects to bring forward these homes. They have also been liaising with the neighbouring strategic development to ensure there are good links between the two sites.
The 7 proposed homes of mixed size, will be for affordable rent and can never be sold on the open market, remaining as homes prioritised for locals, forever.
Shortly the plans for these homes will be available to view and a local public consultation will be held in Fordham Village Hall. Date to be announced by the Parish Council shortly. All welcome.
Allocations
Allocations of these homes will be via the Colchester Housing Register and according to their allocations policy. We would like to encourage you to go onto this register to be considered – more information can be found here https://www.gatewaytohomechoice.org.uk/
If you have a local connection to Fordham and would like to register your interest for one of these properties, please also let the Parish Council Clerk know so you can be kept up to date.
Housing Interest Contact Form please complete and return to Hastoe.