We are set to significantly expand our affordable housing provision with the acquisition of 28 new social rented homes at zero capital cost, following an agreement with Persimmon Homes for the Cricket Lane development in Lichfield.
The homes are being transferred to the council through a Section 106 agreement and will be available to residents on Lichfield’s Housing Register once complete. Construction is expected to begin in mid-2026, with the homes due for handover in 2027.
This acquisition supports the council’s Housing, Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2025–2030, strengthening the supply of high-quality, affordable homes in response to rising demand. More than 616 households are currently waiting for social housing, including around 50 people who have identified the St John’s ward - where this development sits - as their preferred location.
The Cricket Lane site will deliver 128 affordable homes in total, including the 28 being acquired by LDC, meaning 25% of the development will be affordable housing – more than the current district average. All 28 council-owned homes will be delivered as social rented housing, supporting long-term local need.
The homes, valued between £4.2 million and £8.9 million, represent one of the largest additions to the council’s housing portfolio in recent years. They will be built to modern energy-efficiency standards, helping reduce running costs for tenants and supporting the council’s wider sustainability ambitions.
Once handed over, the properties will be managed on the council’s behalf by Lichfield West Midlands Traded Services (LWM).
Councillor Alex Farrell, Cabinet Member for Housing and Local Plan, said:
“This is a major step forward for Lichfield District. Securing 28 new social rented homes at no cost will make a real difference to families who need good-quality, affordable places to live. With more than 600 households on our waiting list, this agreement demonstrates our commitment to expanding our council housing stock and meeting the needs of our growing communities with high-quality, energy-efficient homes that are protected for the long term.”
Further updates on the development and allocation process will be shared as the project progresses.