Stroud District Council has started consultation with its tenant representatives to get their views on a new scheme which could see the building of homes on large gardens of empty council house plots.

The proposals only apply to council homes with big gardens, which become vacant, and could help the district meet its housing needs.

Councillor Frances Roden, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing for Stroud District Council, said: "Much of the council's housing stock is old and costly to maintain. When some properties are vacated they can cost tens of thousands of pounds to repair and even then they may only have a limited lifespan. We have to look at options which will help counter this expense, and at the same time allow us to improve housing prospects for the people of the district. We want the views of the Housing Management Forum, who represent the interests of our tenants, on this issue."

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The council has assessed that there are many houses with very big gardens which could potentially accommodate more homes for new residents. With a limited supply of homes suitable for larger families it could also provide opportunities to extend existing properties to accommodate them. Additionally, in certain instances, combining adjoining gardens could allow more houses to be built - including private housing. Income from any private sector projects could then go towards providing more affordable housing or reinvestment into the current stock.

On sites with the potential for more housing, new tenants are being advised of this possibility before they decide to move in.

(CD/KMcA)