Runnymede, a borough in Surrey, is taking significant steps to address its housing crisis by committing to the purchase of 13 new properties. These homes, which are now being built, will give some of the residents on Medway council’s housing register access to affordable housing for the first time.
The Runnymede council, meanwhile, is aimed at just delivering more ‘infill’ homes. They want to support families and individuals who have waited for too long for social housing. The newly constructed units will have rents affordable to people with low incomes. They particularly want to help people and families who have a deep local tie to the borough.
Councillor Mike Smith, chair of the housing committee, lauded the significance of this move for the community. Making more homes affordable is a priority for him and the entire council, he said. This will have an immediate and positive impact for people living there.
“Securing more affordable homes is one of the most important things we can do for our residents.” – Councillor Mike Smith
The choice to buy these properties is a testament to the increasing need for social housing in Runnymede. The pandemic has pushed many more families to look for stability and affordability in their homes. This effort aims to provide some immediate respite to the local housing market.
The council’s pledge to always prioritise people with a local connection highlights its commitment to robustly helping the residents of Runnymede. In this way, the council is looking to ensure these homes are available to those individuals and families who are already part of the community. They want to create an unshakeable sense of permanence and rootedness in the process.
It means that next year more families in Runnymede will have the opportunity to move into brand new homes. This is a welcome sign of change in the borough’s direction when it comes to social housing. This program is a direct source of urgent help for people who are struggling. More importantly, it highlights Runnymede council’s earnest commitment to facing their long-time housing struggles head-on.
