Rural affordable housing

Rural affordable homes

Rural exception sites, as outlined in the national planning policy framework, are affordable housing sites that can be developed within or next to villages to meet local need. These sites would not normally be permitted for residential development but are considered as exceptions. Such schemes must be sympathetic to the character of a village whilst also remaining affordable for local people.

The Rural Housing Enablers Programme works closely with local communities, parish councils and local housing associations to develop much-needed rural affordable housing. 

Our Rural Housing Enablers offer an impartial service in rural areas, where they can:

• carry out parish-wide surveys to assess local housing need
• work with parish councils, housing associations and communities to explore ways of meeting identified housing need
• liaise with landowners and planning teams to identify possible sites
• assist with community consultation, engagement and participation
• help to secure funding for affordable housing 
• bring together all parties to find solutions

 Read our guide to rural housing in North Yorkshire (pdf / 1 MB) to find out more.

Housing needs surveys and reports

Our Rural Housing Enablers work with parish councils and local communities to identify the level of need for affordable homes through housing needs surveys and reports. These are key tools for bringing forward rural exception sites in these areas. 

We have carried out housing needs surveys in the following areas:

If a survey has been carried out in your area and you would like to see the report please contact us.