Stroud District Council Boosts Affordable Housing with 13 New Homes Near Cam

Stroud District Council has taken a significant step to enhance affordable housing options by acquiring 13 properties at the newly built Lister Gardens development near Cam, just a few miles from Stroud town center. Developed by Wain Homes, this well-situated community is within walking distance of Cam & Dursley railway station, offering convenient rail and road links to Stroud, Gloucester, Cheltenham, and Bristol.

The development is thoughtfully integrated with green spaces, including an on-site play area, bird boxes, and even a hedgehog highway to support local wildlife. The council’s purchase includes six shared ownership homes—two two-bedroom houses and four one-bedroom flats—and seven affordable rental homes, featuring a mix of two, three, and four-bedroom houses.

Each property is equipped with energy-efficient features such as gas central heating, solar photovoltaic panels, electric vehicle charging points, dedicated parking, and private gardens. These elements not only contribute to reducing residents’ running costs but also align with the council’s commitment to sustainable living.

Council Housing Committee Chair, Cllr Gary Luff, emphasized the importance of acquiring affordable homes in well-connected, community-focused locations: “Securing high quality affordable homes in areas like Cam supports our residents’ needs while ensuring these homes offer long-term value.”

The acquisition was facilitated through Section 106 planning agreements, which require developers to contribute affordable housing within new projects. This arrangement enables the council to secure these homes at discounted prices, ensuring they remain accessible to local people rather than reverting to the private market.

With over 3,000 households currently on the council’s housing register, this purchase is a vital contribution toward meeting the district’s growing demand for affordable, quality homes.