West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has agreed plans to acquire 36 new build properties for social rent and temporary accommodation in Buckton Fields, Northampton.
The decision, approved at the Council’s Cabinet meeting, will see WNC purchase two newly built blocks of apartments from Taylor Wimpey, helping to ensure these homes can be made available to local residents as soon as possible.
The majority of the units will be for social rent, with a small number allocated for temporary accommodation, supporting residents most in need and reducing reliance on costly short-term placements. The mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments will provide safe, modern and affordable homes for individuals and families, directly addressing some of the most urgent housing needs in the area.
Cllr Charlie Hastie, cabinet member for housing, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to make sure newly built homes don’t stand empty, but instead provide a lifeline for local people who need them most.
“By acting quickly, the Council is not only delivering new social rent homes at pace, but also creating more temporary accommodation to reduce pressure on emergency housing. It’s a real example of how we’re delivering on our housing strategy and investing in homes that make a difference.”
The homes form part of Taylor Wimpey’s wider Buckton Fields development, a sustainable urban extension providing over 1,000 new homes, of which 35% are designated as affordable.
The 36 properties had originally been earmarked for a private affordable housing provider, but following the collapse of that arrangement, WNC stepped in to secure the homes at a discounted rate, ensuring they can be used to meet local demand.
Steven Clarke, sales and marketing director at Taylor Wimpey East Midlands, said: “We are proud to be working with West Northamptonshire Council to deliver high-quality affordable homes that meet the needs of local people.
“Buckton Fields has been designed as a sustainable, inclusive community, and it’s great to see these new homes helping residents access affordable, modern living spaces close to local amenities.”
