An estate of ‘affordable homes’ could be built in West Cumbria if a scheme receives the green light from the council.

In a vision outlined to Copeland Borough Council, developer Home Group proposed development outlined pans for 14 new affordable rented dwellings at Jefferson Park, Whitehaven.

Home Group stated: “Our intention is to provide high quality, attractive housing for affordable rent, that suits the needs of the local community."

The project aims to provide an attractive, affordable and secure development, with dwellings which appeal to young couples and families with the layout and dwelling design aiming to “respond to its context, such that it complements the existing community,” the applicant added.

This 100% affordable provision is, in part, funded through a Homes England grant.

Whilst Home Group has a significant stock in Whitehaven the majority of these are three-bed houses. The demand for two-bedroom homes has increased due to welfare reform, making affordability more manageable for families who fully occupy rented homes.

It emphasised that the plans will seek to fit with the needs of the wider community, stating: “We need to provide new housing that fits current demographics and believe that by providing two-bed properties on Jefferson Park it enables smaller families and those looking for a first tenancy to manage a home in a stable community and look to the future with a stable housing provision. This development of all two-bed homes will help to go towards balancing the housing offer in this part of Whitehaven.

“Alongside this, our fundamental design ethos is creating great places to live, that feel safe and allow communities to thrive. This is achieved through a focus on urban design that is responsive to context and need, creating homes, spaces, and communities for people.

It said the scheme would aim to take inspiration from the community while becoming a new asset for Whitehaven.

It added: “Taking inspiration from local material palettes and maximising use of existing infrastructure, the proposed residential development aims to provide much-needed affordable housing for the wider area whilst adding to the existing community.”

More at copeland.gov.uk.