Affordable housing scheme sees first NHS workers move in

NHS workers in Southmead, Bristol, have been moving into Elderberry Walk, part of a development scheme with 161 new homes.

The scheme, a collaboration between BBRC Homes, Cheyne Social Property Impact Fund, Brighter Places Housing Association, and Bristol City Council, aims to provide affordable and ethical housing for residents and key workers.

BBRC Homes has leased 61 properties, including 21 at a 10 per cent discount for key workers, 27 for long-term market rent, and 13 as Rent to Buy homes.

The first 11 rent to buy houses were completed last year, and 24 flats in June/July are now occupied, including six for NHS key workers.

The recent completion of 24 one and two-bed flats, available for key workers and open market rent, marks a milestone.

Priority for keyworker flats is determined by local connections, family in Bristol, and income thresholds, focusing on low to middle-income earners.

The initial six two-bed flats for open market rent received overwhelming interest, with 54 applications in the first 36 hours, resulting in closed applications.

Wise Living, managing the properties, reports a strong ongoing interest, with 90 per cent of apartments already occupied.