Richmond: New scheme set to boost housing provision in the borough

Richmond Council have launched an affordable housing scheme in the borough, designed to boost living standards for residents.

It has outlined its plans in its Housing Strategy 2013-17, which it says will help to reduce housing shortages and maintain good quality homes in the area.

The council claims that the proposals help to address the concerns of residents who are unable to obtain suitable housing. 

The housing strategy also aims to provide shared ownership opportunities for people, and encourages more collaboration between the local authority, registered social landlords, businesses, the mayor of London and the government.

In a bid to help more elderly people get access to suitable and independent housing, the council announced it will be giving grants to disabled households on low incomes. 

The funds can also go towards homes being fitted with a stair-lift or a specially adapted shower. 

Commenting on the developments, councillor David Marlow, cabinet member for housing for Richmond Council, said that the strategy will help to bring about the changes designed to place people in suitable accommodation within the borough.

He added: "Ensuring that registered social landlords provide good quality affordable homes and protecting our most vulnerable residents is at the heart of the council’s housing strategy.

"By working closely with the private and public sectors, the London mayor, as well as central government, we can tackle the borough’s housing needs. We will always do what we can to help our most vulnerable residents, which is why helping elderly and disabled residents to continue to live independently within our community forms a major part of this four-year strategy."

As part of its affordable housing scheme, the council have also launched their winter warmth home visiting service, designed to provide advice to vulnerable residents on energy efficiency improvements.

However, this is not the first scheme which has helped to boost properties in the borough. The council also revealed that between April 2006 to March 2010, 394 new build affordable homes and ‘purchase and repair’ homes were provided.

Similarly, from April 2010 to March 2014, a total of 433 homes are expected to have been built.

Published 6th February, 2014

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