Villages and towns in England’s rural communities will be allowed to build starter homes for local residents in the Government’s first ever Rural Productivity Plan.
The plan aims to allow local areas to allocate more sites for Starter Homes, which can be bought at a 20% discount by first-time buyers with links to the area.
Communities Secretary Greg Clark said:
"We’re determined to ensure anyone who works hard and aspires to own their own home has the opportunity to do so – whether they live in cities, towns or rural communities.
"But all too often young people find themselves exiled from the place they grew up as they are forced to move away to find a home of their own.
"That’s why we’re putting power directly in the hands of rural councils to give the go-ahead for new Starter Homes in their area so local young first-time buyers can continue to be a vital part of their communities."
Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne added:
"For too long the British economy has been reliant on businesses based in our cities and towns. That means setting the right conditions for rural communities and businesses to thrive, investing in education and skills, improving rural infrastructure, and allowing rural villages to thrive and grow."
