A highly informative, engaging, and important debate took place in Westminster Hall this week, led by Reading West and Mid Berkshire MP, Olivia Bailey, on the critical issue of affordable rural housing provision.

Olivia spoke passionately about the challenges our rural communities face and the urgent need to support appropriate development that truly is affordable and meets local needs. She also highlighted the invaluable work of our Rural Housing Enabler (RHE), Maria, with the village of Beenham, stating:

“The role of rural housing enablers is crucial in delivering affordable housing. I consider Connecting Communities in Berkshire to be the gold standard. The team works in partnership with developers, landowners, local authorities, parish councils, and local people to build truly affordable homes on rural exception sites. Currently, they are working in Beenham to identify housing needs and suitable land, in collaboration with the parish council and the local community.”

You can view a highlight video below for more insight.

It was also encouraging to hear the Minister, Matthew Pennycook, recognise the vital role of Rural Housing Enablers and affirm his commitment to better supporting Rural Exception Sites as a policy driver for delivering affordable homes.

Our RHE, Maria Kelly, commented, “It’s fantastic to have our work with rural parishes highlighted. We hope Olivia’s speech will encourage other parish councils across Berkshire to get in touch with us.”

As the government continues its commitment to significantly increase housing delivery, we look forward to continuing working with our national network ACRE to influence future planning policy and represent the needs of the rural communities we serve.

Watch the debate here; https://parliamentlive.tv/event/index/dd159b03-912b-413e-9499-8189e6cf0ea8?in=16:01:24