Wandsworth enjoys a new housing boom

Tenants looking for flats to rent in Wandsworth may have seen an increase in the number of potential properties available in the last year.

According to Wandsworth Council, the London borough has experienced something of a new housing boom over the last 12 months, with a substantial increase in building.

It said there was a 103 per cent rise in the number of homes completed by builders, as well as a 41 per cent increase in the number of projects starting up.

In total between March 2011 and March 2012 some 979 new homes were finished and work began on a further 2,160, providing even more choice for those looking to settle in Wandsworth.

Of those completed, the majority were built by private sector developers, although some were provide by housing associations and the council, with 27 per cent classed as affordable.

Developments have included the 144 key worker homes in St George's Grove and the 46 rental properties for low income families in Rectory Lane, both in Tooting.

More than 200 homes were also built on the former South Thames College site at Putney Hill.

In addition, the council approved planning permission for another 10,498 dwellings, which means there are now 17,556 in the pipeline across the borough.

Paul Ellis, cabinet member for housing at Wandsworth Council, said: "Wandsworth has seen a significant increase in activity across all parts of the housing sector and this is delivering the new homes that local people need.

"I am especially delighted that the supply of affordable housing is so healthy. Providing a mix of homes for rent and shared ownership is playing a crucial role in helping families on low incomes and also key workers like teachers, nurses, police officers and firefighters who want to get a foot on the housing ladder."

Posted by Andy Britten

Published 22nd October, 2012

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