Cambridgeshire ACRE • What we do • Facilitating rural housing

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Facilitating rural housing

Empowering rural communities through affordable housing

Cambridgeshire ACRE partners with local authorities, housing associations, town and parish councils and communities to deliver around 50 rural affordable homes each year. Our work is dedicated to supporting those who would otherwise struggle to find a home in the places they love.

Identifying hidden housing needs: Our housing needs surveys consistently uncover unmet demand for affordable homes across rural Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. These insights provide clear evidence for local authorities, housing associations and communities to advocate for investment and planning approvals, ensuring housing solutions are shaped by real needs.

Building homes that sustain rural communities: We champion high-quality, low-carbon housing that meets local needs while preserving the rural character of villages. By working in partnership, we help communities take ownership of their housing future, ensuring that young families can stay, older residents can downsize and rural economies remain strong.

“This is something we can achieve together.”

Ensuring thriving rural communities

High property prices and the need for large deposits make home ownership unattainable for many in rural areas. With local salaries often failing to keep pace with rising costs, the next generation is finding it increasingly difficult to live and work in the communities they grew up in. As a result, rural communities face challenges such as declining social diversity, school closures, reduced public transport and struggling local services, including shops, healthcare providers and social spaces.

Read how one village developed affordable homes for local people through partnership and planning

A practical approach to community sustainability

Investing in affordable housing is a proactive and responsible way to ensure the long-term survival of rural communities. By providing subsidised homes, either for rent or shared ownership at below-market rates, local people can stay in the areas they call home, supporting economic and social stability.

How Cambridgeshire ACRE can help

We work alongside parish councils, local authorities, housing associations, landowners, and community land trusts to deliver practical, evidence-based housing solutions. Our support includes:

Housing Needs Surveys – Helping communities identify hidden demand for affordable homes.
Finding suitable sites – Working with landowners to secure appropriate locations.
Facilitating partnerships – Bringing together local authorities, registered social provider, and community-led housing groups to deliver new homes.
Championing affordable housing – Providing clear facts and evidence on why it’s essential for community survival.
Exploring innovative solutions – Seeking new ways of working to address rural housing challenges.

A collaborative effort for real impact

Cambridgeshire ACRE leads the Cambridgeshire Rural Affordable Housing Partnership, uniting key stakeholders to deliver much-needed affordable homes across the county. By working together, we ensure that rural communities remain vibrant, inclusive, and fit for the future.

“Sustainable, community-led housing is within reach—let’s make it happen together.”

Learn more about the Partnership’s work