Nineteen affordable, energy-efficient homes have been completed in Bomere Heath, Shropshire, for social rent and shared ownership, prioritised for people with strong local ties and backed by £1.4m from Homes England.

Residents have begun moving into the new properties following the completion of the Housing Plus Group development in partnership with J. Harper & Sons (Leominster) Limited.

The allocation gives priority to those with established connections to the village, helping people remain close to family, friends and jobs. The mix includes one-bedroom flats and bungalows, alongside two and three-bedroom houses, offering options for individuals, couples and families.

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A new play area has been created on site to encourage children to play and for neighbours to meet, helping to build a sense of community from the outset.

The scheme comes amid pressure on housing in rural areas like Bomere Heath, where rising prices can make it harder for local people to stay in their communities.

Lesley Birch, Development Manager at Housing Plus Group, said: "I'm incredibly proud to see residents now moving into their new homes. This development is helping people with local connections to remain in the village they love, instead of being forced out by rising house prices.

"Providing affordable homes like these is so important across Shropshire and Staffordshire, where rural communities can often struggle with limited housing options. Developments like this help ensure people can stay closer to their jobs, families and support networks.

"It's a very rewarding moment to see this development come to life, whilst knowing that we have helped to create a place that people are proud to call home."

The homes have been designed to complement the village setting and to help keep running costs down, with features including solar panels and air source heat pumps to improve energy efficiency.

The project received £1.4 million in funding support from Homes England.