Council-owned homes delivered in Rugeley as partners mark completion

Lovell Partnerships and Cannock Chase District Council have celebrated the completion of 29 affordable homes built to support high local demand for in Rugeley.

Delivered on council-owned land, the homes form part of the 58-home Farriers Fold development and include a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom properties.

To celebrate the completion of the development, Lovell hosted an event bringing together residents, partners, local councillors and tenant engagement representatives.

The event provided an opportunity for residents to ask questions, find out more about their new homes and the local area, and for everyone involved to come together to celebrate the new community.

A dedicated trailer was also on site during the event to demonstrate how to use the air source heat pumps effectively to help residents get the most from the energy-efficient technology in their homes.

These measures have the potential to support lower energy use and running costs, while providing warm and comfortable homes for residents.

Chantel Cresswell, head of partnerships at Lovell in the West Midlands, said: “Farriers Fold is a strong example of what can be achieved when local authorities and experienced development partners work together to deliver much-needed council-owned homes.

“By working alongside Cannock Chase Council to bring forward this scheme, we have helped to provide new affordable homes that will support local people and contribute to easing pressure on the council’s housing waiting list.

“This partnership has enabled us to build the council’s first affordable homes since 2021, as well as the very first homes it has delivered to the Future Homes Standard, something we’re incredibly proud of.”

The completion of Farriers Fold comes at a time when local authorities are being encouraged by the government to play a greater role in delivering the homes their communities need, supporting wider ambitions to increase the supply of affordable housing.

Councillor Melissa Cecil, portfolio leader for housing and corporate assets said: “As the first council homes in the district built to Future Homes Standards, these properties set a new benchmark for energy efficiency and sustainability.

“This achievement forms part of the wider delivery of 58 new homes made possible through our successful partnership with housing specialist Lovell.

“Working together, we have demonstrated what can be achieved through a shared commitment to providing quality, affordable housing and investing in our communities. I wish all new residents every happiness as they begin the next chapter in their new homes."