A new housing development is taking shape in rural County Durham, creating 32 modern, energy-efficient homes to help meet the growing need for affordable housing.
During Rural Housing Week, a national campaign highlighting the importance of affordable homes in countryside communities, the scheme is a timely reminder of the role high-quality, energy-efficient affordable homes can play in supporting people and creating sustainable rural places.
The scheme, delivered by Adderstone Living for not-for-profit housing association believe housing, will include a mix of two, three and four-bedroom houses and bungalows, which will all be high quality and exceptionally energy efficient.
Bishop Auckland MP Sam Rushworth welcomed the development after visiting the site during an earlier stage of construction to see the plans and progress first-hand.
He said: “Increasing the number of affordable homes for local families to rent and buy is a top priority of the government, especially in rural communities like Stanhope.
“So, it was fantastic to see believe housing and Adderstone working together on a project that started only recently and will be delivered swiftly, all while supporting regional jobs.
“Visiting at the start of construction, I was impressed by the quality and energy efficiency planned for these homes. With a mix of house types and options for rent and affordable ownership, including much-needed bungalows, this scheme will help meet housing needs and strengthen the community.”
Each home will feature solar panels, an air source heat pump, and an electric vehicle charging point to help residents keep energy costs down while enjoying healthy, comfortable living spaces.
And each will have its own garden and a stone finish on the outside, so they are in keeping with the countryside setting.
The development will include 16 homes for social rent, the most affordable type of social housing, with the rest available through Rent to Buy and shared ownership. These options make owning a home more accessible and affordable. Rent to Buy gives people five years of lower rent to help them save for a deposit, while shared ownership lets them buy a share of a home and pay rent on the rest.
Specialist affordable homes developer Adderstone Living is delivering the scheme, which is expected to complete by summer 2027.
Tom Winter, Assistant Director of Development at believe housing, said: “We’re delighted to see work underway on these homes in rural County Durham.
“Our recent development in Wolsingham attracted around 150 bids per home, so we know demand will be high.
“These homes aren’t just affordable – they’re being built to give people the healthy, comfortable living spaces they deserve and to support a vibrant, sustainable community.”
Stephen McCoy, Managing Director at Adderstone Living, said: “This development combines practical design with sustainable features so residents can enjoy comfortable homes with lower running costs in a setting that fits naturally into the area.
“It’s a real, tangible example of our commitment to creating homes that genuinely support people and their communities.”
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