On 28 December 2021 Government requirements for the provision of First Homes as part of affordable housing contributions came into effect

Apart from some areas where transitional arrangements will apply, the First Homes requirements will create a number of challenges for rural local authorities.

Research recently conducted by the Rural Service Network shows local authority members have several concerns including:

• First homes not being affordable in their rural communities
• Not being able to achieve a £250,000 price cap because market values are too high
• A consequence of the proposals being a reduction in affordable rented housing and shared ownership provision

Recommendations proposed by the Rural Services Network in response to the research include:

• Amendment of National Planning Policy Guidance
• Allowing Homes England grant subsidy
• Call for Government to fulfil its commitment on monitoring

To read the full First Homes Report, click here