Some of the money raised by charging a council tax premium on second homes in North Yorkshire is to be used to help deliver community housing projects.
North Yorkshire Council is taking an innovative approach to addressing the affordable housing crisis in the region, particularly in coastal communities like Scarborough and Whitby. The council is leveraging funds generated from a new council tax premium on second homes to invest in community-led housing projects.
The Council has now approved the first spending from the expected £12m annual income stream, agreeing that one million pounds a year will spent on community housing projects.
Councillor Simon Myers is the executive member for housing, he says it's a unique approach.
North Yorkshire Council is unique in England in dedicating all of its second homes council tax premium revenue to housing-related issues.
The first allocation of the money will be used to support community-led housing schemes.
The schemes allow residents to play a central role in developing housing solutions tailored to their specific needs. This approach is particularly relevant in rural and coastal areas where land scarcity and the reluctance of large developers often create challenges in delivering affordable homes.
Community-led housing groups often have access to sites unattractive to mainstream developers, making them ideal for developing smaller projects in areas like national parks where large-scale development is difficult. Importantly, community-led housing fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment among residents, allowing them to adapt to changing needs and contribute to the sustainability of their communities.
To facilitate these projects, the council has established the Community Housing Fund (CHF). This fund, initially established with government funding, will be bolstered with £1 million annually from the second homes council tax premium. The CHF will provide both capital and revenue funding to community-led housing groups, supporting them through the various stages of project development, from initial feasibility studies to planning and construction.
Councillor Myers says the council recognizes the importance of supporting the pipeline of community-led housing groups, which has grown significantly in recent years.
Coastal communities, such as Scarborough and Whitby, are expected to benefit significantly from this initiative. These areas often face high housing costs driven by the demand for second homes, making it difficult for local residents to find affordable housing options.
The council's says that its commitment to funding community-led housing will help increase the supply of affordable homes in these areas, ensuring that residents can remain in their communities and contribute to their long-term sustainability. It's expected that this approach will also support the local economy by providing jobs, skills development, and training opportunities.
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