Affordable Housing in Rural County Durham: A Growing Need
Rural County Durham faces a critical shortage of affordable housing. DCA believe no one should be disadvantaged due to where they live, but too many people in rural areas are forced to move away due to high costs or lack of availability.
In recent decades, County Durham has lost 3,000 affordable homes through schemes like Right to Buy or from demolitions. Second home ownership is also a problem, causing rising house prices and rents. Very few affordable housing projects have been developed to compensate for this loss.
Other rural areas in the UK have successfully addressed similar challenges, so it’s time for us to act. The Rural Housing Enabler Programme gives County Durham a chance to assess the situation, give local communities a voice and support more affordable housing.
Why affordable housing matters
- Essential workers: Key workers, such as healthcare and public service employees, are priced out of the area, forced to choose between long commutes or seeking work in urban centres.
- Local businesses: Many small businesses struggle to hire staff, as affordable housing options are scarce.
- Young people and families: Increasing costs push young people and families out of their home villages.
- Older residents: Older residents may be unable to downsize within their own community, lacking accessible housing options, and losing family and friend connections to live an independent life.
When residents leave, it impacts everyone. Local shops lose customers, businesses can’t find workers, service delivery is strained, and vital community support networks start to break down.
Housing is coming – let’s shape it together
The latest government housebuilding targets for County Durham are ambitious, with a proposed 53% increase in new housing for our area. Without rural engagement, these developments may happen mainly in urban areas or in ways that don’t reflect local needs. Now is the time for rural communities to help guide where and how housing is built.
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