Member Article

New approach to meeting housing needs in local communities

Local housing provider Livin, is taking a new approach to meeting housing needs in local communities, and is buying back homes previously purchased under the Right to Buy scheme.

13 sought after homes have been purchased so far in Newton Aycliffe, Ferryhill, and the latest in St David’s Close, Spennymoor. Demand for these homes in these communities is very high and all homes have been allocated within days of advertising.
Colin Steel, chief executive at Livin said “through this approach we are able to offer much needed homes in popular local communities. We buy back the properties and ensure they are at a high standard before offering them for rent. Feedback has been really positive so far and new tenants are delighted to be living in their communities of choice and in homes they are proud of.”

The approach supports the County Durham Housing Strategy and is a means of increasing the supply of much needed housing in the area.

Councillor Kevin Shaw, Durham County Council said: “Livin’s decision to ‘buy back’ properties previously lost under the right to buy is a very positive step and we are delighted that they are working so positively with us in helping to deliver such an important part of our housing strategy”.

Alan Fletcher, chair of Livin’s board said: “Livin’s Board strongly supported the decision to buy back these homes. We have already seen the popularity of the homes we have acquired to date and we plan to continue to acquire more homes in areas where demand is high”

Pictured left to right: Colin Steel (Livin Chief Executive), Cllr Kevin Shaw (DCC Cabinet Portfolio Holder),Alan Fletcher (Livin Board Chair)

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Eileen Cotterill .