FOI request (FOI208697)

Self Build

Requested Mon 20 March 2017
Responded  Mon 20 March 2017

I am a published author, currently working on my latest book, exploring the self - build movement of the 1950's; where groups of people legally constituted to build their own homes under the Housing Act of 1936, as housing associations. In my final section of this book I will be making a comparison of self - build initiatives in the present day. Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, I am seeking data from your authority, and I would ask if you can provide me with the following information, from your register of self build and custom: How many housing associations are registered with you at present with an expressed interest to build in your authority? How many housing associations are currently in the planning application phase within your authority? How many housing associations are now building in your authority? I am particularly keen to highlight two or three associations for 'best practice' - have you any housing associations that you consider to be of note and worthy of promotion nationally, and would you be willing to pass a contact name and email so that I may conduct independent research with that housing association please?  

Response

Q1 - There are no Housing Associations on the Hastings Self-build Register at present. The Register can accommodate 'Associations of Individuals' however each individual either alone or with others must be acquiring a serviced plot of land in the area for their own self-build and custom house building. DCLG defines Housing Associations as 'independent societies, bodies of trustees or companies established for the purpose of providing low-cost social housing for people in housing need on a non-profit-making basis'. Potentially any of these groups could register as an association of individuals provided 'each member' meets the self-build criteria. Information about the Hastings self-build register is available using the following link: https://www.hastings.gov.uk/planning/policy/selfbuild_customhouse_register/

Q2 - Amicus Horizon and Orbit South.

Q3 - Amicus Horizon and Orbit Housing Associations are currently building schemes in Hastings Borough, but these are not self-build schemes.