City Council launches housing company to meet housing demand
Winchester City Council has established its own housing company, Venta Living Limited, to help meet the growing demand for privately rented homes in the Winchester District.
Venta living was established in the autumn last year and will provide high quality, energy efficient homes offering assured short-term tenancies and a wider choice of new homes for private renters across the district.
The first homes available will be within the Winnall Flats redevelopment – Foxglove House. Here, 41 one-bedroom apartments will be available to rent privately through Venta Living Limited as part of the council’s ambitions of providing homes for all.
The homes have been built to a high standard, with the warmth and comfort of residents in mind - and they will also be more cost-effective to run thanks to their energy efficient design.
In addition to the new homes, an extensive landscaping programme will also take place at the site to create a pleasant environment for people to walk and sit outside.
The new homes have been built by Wates Construction, who interestingly built the existing four blocks back in the 1960’s.
Speaking about Venta Living Ltd, Cabinet Member for Housing Cllr Chris Westwood said:
‘I’m proud of this council’s focus to provide homes for all, and we are very aware of the need for more high quality privately rented homes in our district. The creation of Venta Living Ltd allows us to offer high quality, secure short-term tenancies for people who
choose to rent privately. We care about the quality of the homes, and we care about the wider sense of community. Our homes are designed with this in mind with the public space and landscaping carefully designed for people.The homes are very energy efficient, so not only will they be warm and comfortable – they'll save people money on their bills too. I really look forward to these homes becoming a popular and comfortable place for people in our district to live.’
Expressions of interest are currently being encouraged for the new homes – anyone can register their interest at www.ventaliving.co.uk. It is expected that the homes will be available in early spring.
In addition to the 41 rented apartments, the remaining 35 properties on the 76-home development will also include 3 two-bedroom houses and 32 one and two bed apartments, which will be sold through shared ownership.
More information about the shared ownership scheme can be found at www.the-orchids.com, and expressions of interest can also be made to sales@winchester.gov.uk.