THREE new affordable homes in Callington have been snapped up for just £1 by Westcountry Housing Association via a Caradon District Council planning gain deal. Housing developer Westbury Homes sold the three three-bedroom terraced houses at the bargain basement price as part of a Section 106 agreement, in which community facilities are provided as a condition of receiving planning permission for major housing developments. Councillor John Turner, Caradon's housing portfolio holder, said: 'Affordable housing is our number one priority, and Section 106 agreements are a very cost-effective way of providing more local affordable homes. 'Our new Local Plan proposes that any future large developments are at a ratio of 40 per cent affordable housing to 60 per cent open market housing.' Julian Tuck, chief executive of Westcountry Housing Association, said: 'I am delighted Westcountry is able to demonstrate it's commitment to providing accommodation for local people in the greatest need of housing by working in partnership with Caradon District Council on this initiative. 'Providing homes in rural areas is vital to help local people stay in their communities close to their families and friends.' The three rented homes have been allocated through the Homefinder Direct scheme, which covers council and housing association homes in East Cornwall.
