Low cost homes land sold at 'significant discount'

A development of 25 affordable homes will be built in Kendal, Cumbria

Land has been sold at a "significant discount" to allow for 25 affordable homes to be built, a council said.

Westmorland and Furness Council agreed to sell a site next to High Sparrowmire in Kendal to South Lakes Housing (SLH).

The market value of the land is £457,000 but SLH will pay £75,000, the Liberal Democrat-run authority said.

The council said the sale would help meet the "urgent need" for affordable housing in the area.

Plans for nine homes for social rent and 16 for shared ownership - a government scheme for people struggling to get a mortgage - have already been approved.

When entering into land transactions, local authorities have to get the best price reasonably obtainable for assets.

However, they may sell at a lower price if the move will benefit economic and social well-being, the council said.

Cabinet member for housing, Judith Derbyshire, said the purchase demonstrated the authority takes the issue of affordable homes "very seriously".

"Local families can build a life here and new people can be attracted to relocate," she added.