Stuart Anderson MP has said that affordable housing delivery in rural areas like South Shropshire is at risk if the government does not extend support through a key scheme. In November 2023, the last government launched a £2.5 million Rural Housing Enablers Scheme as part of its 'Unleashing Rural Opportunity' Policy Paper.
This scheme was designed to identify appropriate development opportunities, support site owners, and secure the support of local communities for new developments. It has led to the creation of a network of independent advisors who work in rural communities like Shropshire to identify suitable sites for affordable housing.
The Scheme, which works with the backing of key stakeholders including residents, planners, landowners, and developers, was extended in March 2025 – after a request that was made by Stuart. This has enabled initial discussions about affordable housing in areas of South Shropshire like Worfield and Rudge.
However, there is a lack of funding for smaller schemes in rural areas. So, Stuart is now calling for a capital grant fund that compensates housing associations for the higher costs that are involved with developing schemes in rural communities that have fewer residents.
Stuart has said that this should sit alongside a wider package of support that delivers small-scale developments that obtain backing from local residents. His call comes as research from Homes England has found that new homes in rural areas help people to stay in areas they grew up in as well as to attract key workers like GPs.
This primarily benefits those who already live in or have an existing family or employment connection with the local area. Stuart has added that small-scale developments can also meet the government housing targets without negatively impacting access to green spaces.
It follows concerns about the new Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which has found that people in the poorest rural communities may lose their access to green spaces. This is because funds from the Nature Restoration Levy, which aims to offset the impact of development does not have to be spent in the same county.
It also follows a new housing methodology that Stuart has criticised because it slashes housing targets for London, while doubling it in other areas like Shropshire. Stuart has said that he is committed to delivering the funding and protections needed to sustain the countryside for the people who live, work, and visit the local areas.
Stuart Anderson MP said:
"Small-scale housing developments can help to deliver the right homes in the right places, while protecting our precious green spaces. The Rural Housing Enablers Scheme recognises the importance of enlisting local support for new builds. Yet, there is a lack of funding for smaller schemes in rural areas. So, I am calling on Ministers to expand the range of support available through this scheme –including capital support grants for housing associations. I believe that this can help local families stay and thrive in the area, while ensuring Shropshire's countryside is protected for all."
