An introduction to rural exception policy followed by a site visit to Dunham View.

 

About this event

This Rural Housing Week event will provide parish councils, members and partners with a practical introduction to rural exception sites and how they can be used to deliver affordable homes for local people. The session will begin at Little Downham Village Hall with a short presentation covering the policy context, the role of parish councils and the key stages involved in bringing a rural exception site forward.

Participants will then walk to Dunham View, a new rural exception site being developed by Accent, to see a scheme on site and hear about how it has progressed from identified local need to delivery. The visit will offer a valuable opportunity to ask questions, understand the challenges and benefits of this type of development and consider whether a similar approach could work in their own parish.

 

Who is this event suitable for?

This event is aimed at parish councillors and parish clerks from rural communities who want to better understand how affordable housing for local people can be delivered through rural exception sites. It will also be relevant for Cambridgeshire ACRE members, community representatives and local partners with an interest in rural housing, neighbourhood planning or supporting sustainable rural communities.

The session will be particularly useful for those who are:

• considering undertaking a housing needs survey
• exploring options for delivering affordable homes in their parish
• seeking a clearer understanding of rural exception site policy and process
• interested in learning from a real local example that has progressed from need to delivery

 

Why you should attend this event

Rural exception sites can feel complex and uncertain, particularly for parish councils who have not been through the process before. This event offers a chance to move beyond theory and see how a rural exception site works in practice, using a real local scheme as an example.

By attending, participants will:

• gain a clearer understanding of rural exception site policy and how it can support local housing need
• see firsthand how a scheme has been developed and delivered in a rural parish
• hear about the benefits and challenges from those involved in bringing the site forward
• have the opportunity to ask questions in an informal setting
• build confidence to consider whether a similar approach could work in their own community

 

Cost

This event is free of charge for all attendees.

How to book

Please follow the booking link above to register to attend. You will receive confirmation of your booking. Full joining instructions will be sent by email a week before the event.