Thousands of new homes are to be built across Britain under new deals announced by the government.

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said millions of pounds will be invested to boost the supply of new houses in all areas.

Mr Pickles said: "The investment we're announcing today will help us meet this challenge by driving up the supply of new homes in every corner of the housing market. From new places for rent to people designing to those building their own properties – we will support and deliver the homes this country needs."


More than £53m will be used to speed up the construction of more than 7,000 homes on large developments in Manchester, Medway, Swindon and Kettering, while a new £3m fund will also help planning authorities tackle barriers to work staring on site.

Over £49 million will support three new schemes under the 'Build to Rent' programme in Hampshire and Croydon.

A new prospectus will also be published following a £150m investment fund for 10,000 'serviced plots'.

(CD/JP)