Residents begin moving into new affordable homes in Shropshire village 

The new homes, delivered by Housing Plus Group in partnership with J. Harper & Sons (Leominster) Limited, are available for social rent and shared ownership and have been prioritised for those with a strong local connection to the village, allowing them to stay close to family, friends and work. 

For those moving in, these homes represent more than bricks and mortar. They offer stability, security and the chance to build a future in a place they know and love. 

The scheme includes a mix of one-bedroom flats and bungalows, alongside two and three-bedroom houses, giving individuals, couples and families a range of options suited to their needs. A new play area also provides a space for children to connect and for neighbours to come together, helping to foster a strong sense of community from day one. 

Developments like this are especially important in rural villages like Bomere Heath, where rising house prices can make it difficult for local people to stay in the area.  

Lesley Birch, Development Manager, at Housing Plus Group, said: “I’m incredibly proud to see residents now moving into their new homes. This development is helping people with local connections to remain in the village they love, instead of being forced out by rising house prices. 

“Providing affordable homes like these is so important across Shropshire and Staffordshire, where rural communities can often struggle with limited housing options. Developments like this help ensure people can stay closer to their jobs, families and support networks. 

“It’s a very rewarding moment to see this development come to life, whilst knowing that we have helped to create a place that people are proud to call home.” 

The homes have been thoughtfully designed to blend into the surrounding village while also supporting residents with lower energy costs. Features such as solar panels and air source heat pumps will help new occupants keep their homes warm and efficient. 

The project was supported with £1.4 million in funding from Homes England. 

Antony Rees, Group Managing Director of J. Harper & Sons (Leominster) Limited, said: “It has been a pleasure to collaborate once again with Housing Plus Group on this vital development, bringing critical housing to the local community.  

“This project, a land led scheme brought to Housing Plus Group by Harpers, exemplifies a proactive approach where Harpers identified and secured the land, then presented the opportunity to Housing Plus Group to develop much-needed affordable homes. This collaborative model is incredibly effective in accelerating the delivery of essential housing solutions.  

“It’s been incredibly exciting to watch this scheme progress, seeing these critical homes take shape and benefit the community.” 

During Rural Housing Week (6–10 July), developments like this highlight the vital role affordable housing plays – not just in providing places to live, but in helping people put down roots, stay in the area they love and thrive within rural communities.