Milton Keynes City Council has outlined proposals to significantly increase the number of council-owned homes available within the city. The plan aims to create as many as 600 new properties.
Government Funding Boost
This initiative is set to be supported by substantial funding from the Government’s new Social and Affordable Homes Programme, a decade-long scheme with a £39bn budget. Councils can access this funding by demonstrating their capability to construct high-quality, affordable homes.
Progress and Future Sites
The council, which already manages over 11,000 properties, has a track record of recent development. Last year saw the completion of 183 council homes in Bletchley as part of the regeneration of The Lakes Estate. Additionally, 21 new flats were acquired in Fairfields, and construction began on 66 homes in Netherfield, scheduled for tenant occupation next year.
The current ambition includes building approximately 570 new council homes and acquiring around 30 more. These efforts are intended to reduce the number of families facing homelessness or relying on temporary accommodation.
Development Opportunities in MK
Milton Keynes City Council is well-positioned to achieve its goals, with several council-owned sites identified for potential development by 2035. These sites are subject to planning permission, securing funding, and obtaining future approvals.
Among the potential development locations are Mellish Court and the outdated REEMA blocks in Bletchley, as well as The Gables in Wolverton. The former tower blocks at Mellish Court and The Gables were demolished in 2023 to prepare the sites for future redevelopment.
This story is based on reporting by www.milton-keynes.gov.uk. Read the original coverage: www.milton-keynes.gov.uk Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.