Over £63m of new build affordable housing is coming Barnsley's way in the next three years, with potentially more to come, following a Cabinet members' decision.

The investment, a record for the borough, will provide over 500 new affordable homes across a number of communities.

Cabinet Spokesperson for Development, Cllr Bill Newman, said: "I am delighted to announce such a large scale investment of new homes in Barnsley. In total we have confirmed allocations for 393 homes, with a further 110 subject to progress on delivery of multi-phased schemes. In addition, through our Housing Association partners, we have a further funding bid for 238 more homes being considered in April.


"These homes will be a massive boost for Barnsley, and I know how hard officers of the council and partner Housing Associations have worked to secure this funding.

"I am also pleased that as part of the package of new housing, we have secured the boroughs third extra care scheme at Goldthorpe to help serve the people of the Dearne. We have had fantastic feedback on Lavender Court, our second scheme at Royston opens shortly and the latest scheme will provide 60 new high quality homes."

The programme will be delivered in the planning period 2008 to 2011, with the council making a significant contribution by making land available to its partners at reduced cost, meaning more new homes are built for communities.

(CD/JM)