A RESIDENT from a new affordable home in Oakham has said that moving in has been life changing.

Leigh Woodward was supported by Rutland County Council to find his new home on the Rill Close development on Brooke Road, Oakham which was finished at the end of last year. The site was built by Peterborough based Burmor Construction and has 40 homes for affordable rent and shared ownership.

He lives in his two bedroom property with his daughter and, following a career in the British Army, he had been living in poor quality private rented accommodation before finding out about the new homes.

"It's changed my life. it's a peaceful, friendly neighbourhood in a good location near to amenities, just a five minute walk into town, near to the train station and close to all major roads that help me with getting to work. The house is spacious and provides me with a home I am pleased to live in."

Leigh Woodward

Rill Close has succeeded in nearly doubling Rutland County Council's target for the delivery of affordable homes, reducing pressure on the housing register and changing lives. Through strategic use of developer funding, a Homes England grant and strong partnership working, it provides 28 homes for social rent and 12 for shared ownership.

"The Rill Close scheme is making a real difference to people who have been struggling to find a home, giving them security and a brighter future. The new homes respond directly to local need, helping more people in Rutland access safe, secure and affordable housing. They also reflect the priorities set out in our Local Plan, which focuses on inclusive communities, sustainability and growth that works for everyone."

Councillor Paul Browne, Cabinet Member for Planning

The Rill Close scheme was made possible with Homes England grant funding and £650,000 from Rutland County Council. It involved officers from the council's Housing Options, Planning, Highways and Housing Strategy teams, working closely with ourselves, Burmor Construction and Homes England. As properties are handed over to residents, it represents one of the most successful housing projects to be undertaken in Rutland.

"It's great for us to see this milestone achieved for the community in Oakham and fantastic to see how life changing it can be for people like Leigh. Adding these affordable options to the area is vital in giving people access to safe, secure and good quality homes whilst also easing pressure on waiting lists and temporary accommodation. Our thanks go to Rutland County Council and Burmor for their hard work. They have been great partners to work with."

Paula Heatley, New Homes Director for Platform Housing Group

As well as contributing towards important target for the delivery of affordable homes in Rutland, the Rill Close development has also unlocked important highway improvements along Brooke Road, easing traffic congestion and improving road safety.