CONSTRUCTION on housing in Upavon and Chippenham has begun as part of the council’s pledge to build 1,000 affordable houses over the next decade.

The new houses are being built at Whistledown Farm in Upavon and Rowden Brook in Chippenham by Redcliffe Homes and the council says it was successful in negotiating the affordable housing obligations.

At Upavon the council says 11 affordable homes and seven shared ownership are contracted while contracts have also been signed with Redcliffe Homes to provide 17 affordable rented and 11 shared ownership homes in Chippenham.

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Cabinet member for housing, Phil Alford said: “Some people may think that having the keys to a safe, secure high quality home might seem like a dream too far, but we’re determined to make that a reality for as many people as possible.

“We are looking at all the options available to us to ensure people can get a home that meet their specific needs. We look forward to keeping people updated so that these houses can become homes for people as soon as possible.”