By Betsy Everett
A scheme to create three new affordable homes to rent in the centre of a Dales village is nearing completion.
The Askrigg Foundation’s three-storey building overlooking the market place has been converted to provide a one-bedroom flat on the first floor, a two-bedroom flat on the second floor, and a two-bedroom cottage at the rear of the building.
Applications for the properties are initially restricted to Askrigg and Low Abbotside who cannot afford to buy or rent a home at market prices.
If no applicants meet the eligibility criteria, the offer will be extended to neighbouring parishes.
Work on the £280,000 project, helped by a £150,000 grant from Richmondshire District Council under the government’s community-led housing scheme, has been carried out by local builder Neil Dinsdale and his team.
It is expected to be finished by mid-February.
Under the scheme, and in line with national park planning policy, the accommodation will be let at around 80 per cent of the market value, and in perpetuity: unlike council-owned and housing association properties, they cannot be sold.
The ground floor shop space is also being refurbished, thanks to a £9,500 grant from The National Lottery Community Fund.
Full details of this will be released in due course.
Elizabeth Fawcett, chair of the Askrigg Foundation, said she was delighted with the progress of the work.
“I am so excited to see these three properties being created out of this building.
“It will be a lasting legacy for the village and a great asset to the community.”
For details of eligibility and an application form email askrigg.foundation@btconnect.com.
