Six self build plots will be reserved as part of a scheme in York to help first-time buyers build their own homes.
City of York Council has announced it will redevelop Lowfield Green (artist’s impression pictured), a council housing development, to feature 140 new homes, plus 19 homes to be built by the city’s first housing cooperative and six self build plots.
The self build homes will also align with low-energy Passivhaus guidelines and be affordable to run in the long term.
Bidding is now open for the plots, with two of the self build plots reserved for first-time buyers. If no suitable bids have been received for the two self build plots by 29 November then the sites may be offered more widely to other applicants.
First-time buyers’ bids in excess of £85,000 will be considered for the two self build plots, while buyers are invited to bid £95,000 or over for the other four plots.
Plot Development
Outline planning permission has already been secured, meaning construction work can begin once detailed house plans have been approved.
The village green area-facing plots at the heart of the development are big enough for detached homes with three to five bedrooms, plus an optional garage.
Cllr Denise Craghill, executive member for housing at City of York Council, said: “Supporting first-time buyers to secure a plot and build a home that they can afford is a first in the UK. We’re proud to be offering this addition to our affordable home options.
“By implementing our low-energy recommendations from the design code, these self-build homes will be affordable to run in the long-term. They will also align with our Passivhaus ambitions for the homes we plan to build.”