Middlesbrough MP praises vital new affordable homes at his first housing visit in new ministerial role [Archived]

Mr Clarke, who also serves as the newly appointed Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, welcomed the progress at Bracken Grange, close to the site of James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, which will provide a total of 350 homes.

Thirteen is providing 100 much needed, high quality, affordable homes on the site, with 78 for affordable rent and an additional 22 homes being offered as shared ownership, to help give people a step onto the property ladder.

With a local lettings policy in place, Thirteen is continuing with its commitment in creating a stable environment within the community through effective housing allocations. The policy, which gives reasonable preference to those who work or have a local connection to the area, is part of Thirteen’s goal to support social cohesion.

Simon Clarke MP said: “The development in the heart of Middlesbrough will support affordable homes for people who need them and unlock growth. It is also vital for key public services like the hospital next door at James Cook.”

Chris Smith, interim chief executive of Thirteen said: “It’s important that we have had Simon visit us; he can see the importance of housing to the local economy, and how high quality housing can meet local demand for rented and affordable homes for sale.

“We’ve got an ambitious development programme; over the next few years we’re aiming to build thousands of new homes across the North East and West Yorkshire.”

The mixed development is supported by Homes for the North, a collective of 17 of the largest developing housing associations, which is building more homes in the North of England in an attempt to drive economic prosperity and regenerate local communities.