Croydon community groups wanting to build their own affordable homes on council-owned land have just over two weeks left to apply.
In June Croydon Council opened the eight-week application process for bidders interested in designing and building up to four homes at The Lawns in Upper Norwood.
This is the first of several council-owned sites being made available to boost supply of affordable homes for local people through community-led housing, and so far three groups have indicated they intend to apply.
After the application process for The Lawns closes on 29 July, the council will draw up a shortlist and assess bids against criteria including viability and design.
The winning bidders will then need to carry out detailed engagement with local residents before applying for planning permission. They will also receive design and development support from Brick by Brick, the council-created developer delivering around 2,000 homes including affordable homes across the borough.
The scheme is open to all kinds of interested organisations, which can range from residents’ associations to faith groups. Around 40 people attended two site visits in the spring, and in June interested groups also attended an organised visit to a community-led housing scheme in Barnet.
When the cabinet approved Croydon’s community-led housing initiative in January, the council was praised for having “some of the best policies in the country” by the National Community Land Trust Network, which encourages local people nationwide to develop their own homes.
“Since we launched this project, I’ve been impressed by the enthusiasm of local people I’ve met who want to develop their own community-led homes.
“The winning bidder will get the support they need to make their ideas a reality, so I urge any groups who would like to apply to get in touch.”
Councillor Alison Butler, deputy leader and cabinet member for homes and Gateway services
For more information on applying, email: communityledhousing@croydon.gov.uk
