New affordable homes to be built in Swynnerton by SARH

A £2.2million project will transform the unused site of a former primary school in Swynnerton into new affordable homes.

Stafford and Rural Homes (SARH) has been granted planning permission to build 19 homes in Park View on a rural exception site which was the former location of Swynnerton RC Primary School.

“We believe the new development will be extremely positive for Swynnerton because our housing waiting list had shown a clear demand for smaller accommodation in the local area,” said Karen Armitage, Chief Executive of SARH.

“SARH is firmly committed to working with its partners to help provide more affordable homes which meet local needs within Stafford Borough and I eagerly await work getting underway and seeing the site develop into a fantastic place for people to live.”

SARH along with its development partner, Housing Plus, have worked closely with the Parish Council to bring forward the homes predominantly for older people, encouraging downsizing and releasing family housing within the Parish, to ensure that Swynnerton remains a vibrant and thriving place to live into the future.

Ursula Bennion, director of business development at Housing Plus, said: “SARH is committed to developing more affordable homes in Stafford Borough and our partnership enables both of our organisations to reach their visions to provide homes to those who need them.

“This is a prime example of how we have worked together to create a quality development in a community where there is a demand for affordable housing.”

Roy James, Chairman of Swynnerton Parish Council, and Frank Cheadle and Dave Butler, both Parish Ward Councillors, agreed that the Council is very glad to support the building of additional affordable housing in the village of Swynnerton.

“The new homes will meet a clear need and be in keeping with the character of the village. Councillors are looking forward to work on the homes starting soon,” said Roy James.

The project has also been supported with £240,000 of funding from the Homes and Communities Agency.

Seddon Construction has been appointed as the building contractor and work on the development is due to start in March 2014 with completion expected in the Spring of 2015.