Empowering communities to shape their own housing solutions

Group of people standing in front of pub holing a giant cheque

Community First Yorkshire, in partnership with the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust (YDMT), is taking action to address the pressing issue of rural housing by launching a three-year Community Led Housing Pilot. This initiative is designed to help communities in the Nidderdale National Landscape area take control of their housing future and develop solutions that truly meet local needs.

Why community led housing matters

Rural housing affordability needs tackling. In Nidderdale, rising property prices – averaging £320,000 in 2021 – combined with low local wages have made it difficult for many residents to find suitable housing. This pilot project will provide essential skills training, governance support, and funding advice to help local people take an active role in shaping their own housing solutions.

A focus on Nidderdale national landscape

Nidderdale has been chosen as the pilot area due to its acute shortage of affordable homes and a strong history of community engagement in housing initiatives. Through this project, residents will transition from being passive recipients of housing services to active participants in community led housing (CLH) schemes.

Over the next three years, the project will work closely with local communities, offering hands-on support to navigate planning regulations and establish housing schemes. Governance for the project will be provided by a Steering Group composed of key local stakeholders, ensuring a collaborative and community-focused approach.

Building a sustainable future

By increasing access to affordable housing, this pilot will help sustain rural communities, allowing local people to live and work in the area for generations to come. With the right support, Nidderdale’s communities can take charge of their housing future and create lasting change.

Get in touch

Interested in learning more or getting involved? If you have any questions regarding the Nidderdale Community Led Housing project, please contact Sarah Hart, Nidderdale Community Led Housing Officer at Community First Yorkshire.