BREAKING NEWS: Labour has just announced a transformative plan to invest over £1.1 billion in social housing across the North East, marking a significant step towards alleviating the housing crisis in the region. This urgent funding push is expected to deliver thousands of new social and affordable homes, particularly in areas like Newcastle’s Forth Yards and town centres in South Shields and Wallsend.
The government describes the initiative as “lifechanging,” as it aims to tackle the pressing need for housing amid Labour’s ambitious goal of constructing 1.5 million new homes by 2029. Authorities confirm that the funding will come from the Social and Affordable Homes Programme (SAHP), part of a broader £39 billion scheme running until 2036.
However, questions remain regarding the timeline for the distribution of these funds. North East mayor Kim McGuinness will spearhead the initiative, determining the types and locations of homes to be built, but all funding requests will still require approval from Homes England.
Mayor McGuinness emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “I am going to make sure we use every penny of the £1.1 billion earmarked to help build thousands more homes.” She also noted efforts to prepare sites for new housing to significantly exceed the 705 new homes already cleared for development on brownfield land across the region.
In addition to the £1.1 billion, the government has confirmed an extra £17.6 million investment in regenerating brownfield sites, which is expected to kickstart further housing projects. The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) highlighted that planning is underway for up to 1,190 new homes from 12 identified projects, including significant sites such as:
– Sheepfolds Plot 2, Sunderland – £5,120,437
– Sites in Walker, Newcastle – £4,810,755
– Gateshead Old Town Hall Quarter – £3,420,000
– Former Stobswood Brickworks, Northumberland – £2,987,126
Housing Secretary Steve Reed stated, “This investment will be lifechanging for thousands of families in the North East waiting for a safe, secure home of their own.” He expressed confidence in local leaders to “turn wastelands into homes” and reduce social housing waiting lists.
As the North East gears up for this significant housing expansion, the immediate next steps will involve finalizing plans with Homes England and accelerating the construction process. The urgency to address housing shortages in the region is critical, making this funding a pivotal moment for residents in need of affordable housing solutions.
The local government is also allocating an additional £6.1 million to the Tees Valley, aimed at unlocking 244 new houses and revitalizing neglected areas. Moreover, Newcastle and Hartlepool councils will receive £225,000 each to expedite the construction of council homes at an unprecedented scale.
Stay tuned as developments unfold. This is a crucial moment for the North East, promising new hope for families awaiting homes in their communities.
