The UK government has announced a £20 million funding package to support community-led housing and expand the cooperative housing sector. The 10-year fund, managed by Resonance Community Developers, will assist local groups with planning, construction, and land acquisition, aiming to provide affordable and sustainable housing solutions.

This move aligns with recent changes to the National Planning Policy Framework, which now includes stronger backing for community-led developments. Housing and Planning Minister Matthew Pennycook emphasized that the initiative not only increases housing supply but also gives communities more control over local development.

Blase Lambert, Chief Executive of the Confederation of Co-operative Housing, welcomed the funding, highlighting its potential to enable more homes built by and for local people. Existing projects like YorSpace in York demonstrate the impact of such support, with 19 affordable homes and a shared community space already underway.

The funding is part of a broader government push to reform housing and deliver the largest boost in social and affordable housing in a generation. Read more about this story here.