Richmond Council has delivered 50 new homes for families in urgent need of housing, following a major £21.5 million investment in its property acquisition programme.

The homes, which are a mix of one, two and three-bedroom properties are now being used as temporary accommodation for residents who may have otherwise faced long stays in expensive, nightly-paid housing, located out of the borough.

Families have already begun moving in and the council says it is "committed to providing safe, secure and more affordable homes".

Councillors recently visited some of the new properties to meet with residents and see first-hand the difference the initiative is making. 

Councillor Chris Varley, lead member for housing, said: "It was fantastic to visit these new homes and meet some of the residents who have already moved in.

"Too many people are in nightly-paid temporary accommodation, which isn't right for them and ultimately costs the council more. These new homes are a step in the right direction."

"Everyone deserves a safe and secure place to live. This initiative is not just about addressing housing; it's about helping people rebuild their lives with dignity," he added.

This programme will not only improve the quality of housing for residents, but the council estimates it will save £1 million each year, by reducing the reliance on costly nightly-paid temporary accommodation. 

This initiative is part of Richmond's wider commitment to building foundations for a fairer borough, making sure residents who require temporary accommodation have the access and support they need.