The delivery of affordable, quality housing represented a key pledge of Stockport Labour’s 2016 manifesto. With the launch of Stockport Viaduct Housing Partnership, Stockport Council now has the vehicle it needs to provide these homes for Stockport residents.
The housing market has failed to deliver for large sections of the population. It has been too long since those in charge of either central or local government were prepared to take the action needed to make a positive change on affordable housing.
However, with the launch of the Viaduct Housing Partnership, Stockport Labour has chosen to grasp the nettle. On the 8th of March, Stockport Council officially launched its new housing development company in partnership with Stockport Homes, on the site of its first development under the Viaduct banner in Adswood Road, Cheadle Hulme. The new partnership can draw on the financial resources at the Council’s disposal and the experience and expertise of Stockport Homes.
This publicly owned construction company will provide as many affordable homes to rent or buy as possible and will also provide good quality apprenticeships giving training in construction trade skills.
Cllr Sheila Bailey, Executive Member for Communities and Housing said;
“Everyone should have access to a good quality home. For far too long the national government has made it as difficult as possible for councils to provide affordable homes.
“This company will not solve the problem by itself, but it will go some way towards giving people the opportunity to rent or buy a home they can afford and I am delighted this has been achieved by a Labour Executive with cross Party support”.