Affordable homes programme on track to deliver 170,000 homes by 2015

The Affordable Homes Programme has surpassed expectations, with 146 providers sharing almost £1.8 billion to build 80,000 homes under the programme - putting the Government on track to deliver up to 170,000 new homes by 2015, and safeguarding some 80,000 jobs in construction and related trades.

The programme allows social housing providers to charge a rent of up to 80 per cent of the local market level, and use the additional income to support delivery of more affordable homes. Providers may also offer flexible tenancies to new tenants.

Demand from affordable housing providers to be involved in the programme that will benefit every part of England has been huge. The new homes will be delivered in both rural and urban communities, and will include family homes.

The scheme that is part of a £4.5 billion Government investment in affordable housing will provide a major boost to people on housing waiting lists, and give a shot in the arm to the construction industry.

Subject to contract, these landlords will now be able to start developing much-needed new affordable homes. This is one of a number of efforts being made to move away from the 'one size fits all' system of social housing to one where a range of options are available to meet local housing needs.

Ministers believe that for years millions of people have been on waiting lists with little hope of ever getting a home. That's why the Government has pledged to do things differently, radically reforming social housing in order to give councils and housing associations more control so they can better meet the needs of the people they serve and build more homes.

The Homes and Communities Agency is delivering the Affordable Homes Programme. Through its bidding process the agency's local teams have worked with partners to achieve value for money and the best outcome for communities.