New affordable Council homes delivered at Northstowe

Twenty-four newly built, energy-efficient Council homes will soon be available for affordable rent in Northstowe - as part of the largest purpose-built apartment block that South Cambridgeshire District Council has delivered.

The flats – constructed by Keepmoat - feature modern electric heating systems and solar panels and are part of a commitment by the District Council to continue to provide much-needed quality housing.

Looking further ahead, the next phase of flats will incorporate space for a retail unit – another step forward for Northstowe. The District Council’s Commercial Assets team is actively seeking a tenant, with strong interest already emerging.

Local councillors had the opportunity to tour the flats this week when they saw firsthand how the homes contribute to Northstowe’s expanding collection of modern, well-designed Council properties - developed through a key partnership with housebuilder Keepmoat.

Cllr John Batchelor, Lead Cabinet Member for Housing at the District Council, said: “This is a fantastic step forward for Northstowe and our commitment to delivering high-quality affordable housing. These new homes are well-designed and energy-efficient and contribute to the long-term vision of a thriving and inclusive community. We are excited to see these homes become part of the fabric of Northstowe and to continue working towards delivering even more affordable homes for our residents.”

The Council is collaborating with Keepmoat to deliver 60 Council homes as part of Northstowe Phase 2B – at Stirling Fields. To date, the Council has acquired 18 Council homes. Combined with this latest addition of 24 flats, it brings the total to 42 so far.

Additional amenities at the new block of flats include secure bike storage and a nearby play area, further enhancing the quality of life for future residents. The mix of one- and two-bedroom flats ensures a range of options for individuals and families alike.

The new flats at Northstowe mean that South Cambridgeshire District Council will have delivered a total of 111 new Council homes across the district this financial year – the highest number for a single year.

If you are interested in the affordable rent homes, you will need to be registered with Home-Link. Visit https://www.home-link.org.uk/choice/ to register.

District Cllr for Northstowe, Cllr Tom Bygott, added: “Our community needs more affordable homes in South Cambridgeshire. These properties will help local people at all stages of their lives who want to stay in their home communities, close to friends and family. This is especially important for local young people looking to get a start in life. To grow as a true community, Northstowe needs services, facilities and housing opportunities for everyone in all walks of life. The provision of these homes in Phase 2 is an important milestone in achieving this."

District Cllr for Northstowe, Cllr Natalie Warren-Green, commented: “Affordable housing is a frequent topic of discussion in Northstowe, and I’m pleased to see this new social housing matching the needs and affordability of individuals and small families. In the context of the development of Northstowe too, it’s very pleasing that there is secure bike storage included to support active travel locally, and the use of space for a play area nearby will be very convenient for parents and children alike. From an environmental perspective, it’s good to see the roof being used for solar power generation.”