Leading partnership housebuilder Lovell is celebrating a significant step forward in supporting the government’s housing ambitions following the completion of new council homes on council-owned land in Rugeley.
With the West Midlands accounting for 13% of affordable housing completions delivered through Homes England programmes in 2024/25, the region has an important role to play in increasing the supply of affordable homes across the country.
Helping to meet this demand and reduce pressure on local housing waiting lists, Lovell Partnerships and Cannock Chase District Council have completed 29 affordable rented, council-owned homes in Rugeley.
The homes form part of the wider 58-home Farriers Fold development and highlight how local authorities can work successfully with experienced development partners to unlock council-owned land and increase the availability of affordable housing within their communities.
Chantel Cresswell, head of partnerships at Lovell in the West Midlands, said: “Farriers Fold is a strong example of what can be achieved when local authorities and private sector partners work together to deliver much-needed homes. By partnering with Cannock Chase District Council to bring forward this scheme on council-owned land, we have helped to provide new affordable homes that will support local people on the council’s housing waiting list.
“This partnership has seen the council’s first affordable homes built since 2021, as well as the very first homes it has available for residents built to Future Homes Standard, which is exactly what the government is looking for on a national scale and something we’re proud to be achieving across the region.”
Each home has been designed with energy efficiency and sustainability in mind, incorporating features such as solar panels and air source heat pumps. These measures can help reduce energy use and running costs while providing warm and comfortable homes for residents.
To mark the completion of the development, Lovell hosted an event for residents, project partners, local councillors and tenant engagement representatives. The event gave residents the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about their new homes. A dedicated demonstration trailer was also on site, allowing residents to see how air source heat pumps operate and how to make the most of the energy-efficient technology installed in their properties.
Councillor Melissa Cecil, portfolio leader for housing and corporate assets, said: “As the first council homes in the district built to Future Homes Standards, these properties set a new benchmark for energy efficiency and sustainability.
“This achievement forms part of the wider delivery of 58 new homes made possible through our successful partnership with housing specialist Lovell. Working together, we have demonstrated what can be achieved through a shared commitment to providing quality, affordable housing and investing in our communities. I wish all new residents every happiness as they begin the next chapter in their new homes.”