Dover Council Delivers Biggest Wave of New Council Homes in a Generation
Dover District Council is smashing housing targets with the largest number of high-quality new council homes seen in decades. Their mission: affordable living for local people.
Housing Boom Underway
- In September 2020, councillors greenlit a plan to build 500 new council homes across the district.
- So far, 91 homes are complete, 38 are under construction, and 32 more have planning approval.
- Construction on the latest approved homes is set to start later this year.
Just recently, 26 affordable rented homes on Napchester Road in Whitfield were handed over to the council, including three wheelchair-friendly units — all ready for tenants to move in.
Housing associations have also pitched in, delivering 132 new affordable homes in the district.
Shared Ownership Offers Hope to Aspiring Buyers
Not everyone can buy outright – so Dover Council offers shared ownership schemes to help locals get on the property ladder.
“I was so pleased when my application for my shared ownership apartment was accepted with DDC, I felt that all my dreams had finally come true,” says Helen Watts, a delighted resident of Dover’s new Harold Street development.
“As a single person living on one wage, I didn’t have the affordability to purchase my own property outright. I never had the feeling of security living in private rented apartments before.”
“Despite pandemic delays, the process was worth the wait. I love my flat, designed to a high spec. I now have security and peace of mind. It’s my first step to full ownership.”
“I would highly recommend shared ownership to anyone who cannot afford to buy outright.”
Helping the Homeless & Building Smart
The council also tackles temporary homelessness by providing interim accommodation, cutting costly reliance on private temporary housing.
Smart use of brownfield sites in towns and rural areas means new affordable homes are popping up without gobbling green spaces.
Dover’s Strategic Housing Manager, Rachel Collins, said: “These affordable homes are something to celebrate. We’re giving local people access to quality housing and practical solutions for those facing homelessness. Shared ownership offers a chance to own a home, and there’s more to come.”
Have Your Say: Housing Needs Survey Launched
Dover Council wants to know what locals need for the future. A district-wide housing survey is open to all residents until April 18.
The results will guide future affordable housing plans and help secure funding.
Take the survey at www.dover.gov.uk/Housing/Housing-Development/District-Housing-Needs-Survey-2023.aspx
