Fifteen local people and families have moved into affordable social rent homes in the heart of Bishop’s Stortford, thanks to a successful partnership between Hightown, East Herts Council and Homes England.
The new flats at Limekiln Lane represent a rare opportunity to deliver social rent homes in a highly sought-after, central location – something that is increasingly difficult to achieve.
All 15 homes have been let at social rent, the most affordable form of housing, typically costing around half the price of equivalent homes on the private rented market. This means residents will benefit not only from a secure home but from rents that are genuinely within reach.
The scheme was made possible through a coordinated funding package. East Herts Council contributed £675,000 in commuted sums – funding collected from developers who were unable to provide affordable housing on other sites. This investment helped unlock a further £1.425 million from Homes England, ensuring the homes could be delivered at social rent.
The development consists of six one-bedroom and nine two-bedroom flats, all finished to a high standard with modern, fully fitted kitchens, including white goods. Located on the corner of Northgate End and Link Road, just opposite Waitrose, the homes are a short walk from the train station and town centre, offering excellent access to employment, transport links, shops and local services.
Built to modern energy efficiency standards, the properties will also help residents keep their energy bills down, providing long-term financial security as well as comfort.
The homes have been let to people on the council’s housing register using a points-based system, prioritising local people in the greatest need of housing.
A new resident said: “It was the best day of my life when I found out I had been allocated a flat here. It’s a beautiful area and it feels amazing to have a safe place to raise my daughter. We have been living in temporary housing and would never have been able to afford to rent privately. Having a secure place to live means I can also return to work.”
Councillor Mione Goldspink, Executive Member for Neighbourhoods at East Herts Council, said: “In today’s climate, delivering homes at social rent is extremely challenging – especially in locations like this. These are beautiful, high-quality homes that are truly affordable for people on lower incomes. For many taking up a tenancy at Northgate House, this will mean moving out of overcrowded or unsuitable accommodation into a secure home of their own.
“This is genuinely life changing and I’m incredibly proud of what has been achieved through partnership working to make it happen.”
Andrew Royall, Executive Director of Development at Hightown Housing Association, added: “East Herts is a key area for Hightown, and we are delighted to be working in partnership with East Herts Council to deliver 15 high‑quality homes for social rent to help meet local housing needs in Bishop’s Stortford. This would not have been possible without the valued support and funding from Homes England and East Herts Council, and we are grateful for their continued support.”
