Custom build opportunities growing
A development in East Kingskerwell, Devon, will provide 175 new homes – including nine plots for self and custom builds. The scheme shows the efficiency of the local Teignbridge Council’s innovative policy that developer-led projects of 20+ houses should allocate 5% of plots to those who want to create their own homes. Elsewhere, Quinn Estates’ Broughton Park project in Kent will open up 14 sites for self and custom build, while in the Midlands a collaborative scheme run by East Staffordshire Borough Council and BuildStore will make 25 plots available.
Over 50% of buyers of new developer-built properties have experienced major problems with their homes, according to a YouGov survey by housing charity Shelter. Defects included issues with construction, utility faults and unfinished fittings. Shelter has called for the government to make major changes to revitalise the UK’s house building sector, with more dwellings created via alternative routes. A growing number of people are turning to self build due to the tailored spec and quality control this solution offers.