WITH the shortage of affordable housing causing problems for many people in Mid Wales, a pioneering housing initiative called Home Presteigne has acquired some land, amidst growing support for their community based approach to meeting housing need.

Home Presteigne was established as a local coop for housing in 2013. Their What Do You Think? campaign for homes received funding from Awards for All Wales and has found extra support from assembly member Kirsty Williams, who said

"It is great to see an organisation implementing ideas and strategies to provide and educate people in affordable and energy efficient housing."

2015 promises to be another good year for the organisation as they announce the acquisition of a plot of land suitable for two two-bedroom sustainable and affordable homes. The land was offered to the coop by a supporter of the initiative, in exchange for work on her own house, including improved insulation and energy efficiency measures. A formal agreement has now been signed.

Chairman of Home Presteigne, Paul Taylor said "Across the country, a rising number of ordinary people are building community owned housing. These solutions can meet the needs of local people and create work for local contractors. I believe we can do this in Presteigne and with the support of the community, Home Presteigne will work to solve our housing problems in the years to come".

Home Presteigne will make a planning application later this year for two small homes with gardens and amenities. Plans will incorporate high standards of energy efficiency, aiming to minimise bills and carbon emissions for future residents. A Home Presteigne policy to employ local trades people wherever possible will boost work opportunities. The homes will be let or sold to people living/working in the area who can no longer afford homes on the open market.

To join Home Presteigne or find out more visit www.home-presteigne.co.uk