Nearly 300 affordable homes have been secured across North Herts over the past two years, including 61 social rented homes at a development in Hitchin.

North Herts Council has published an update on progress towards the goals of its Housing Strategy 2024-2029, which was launched in April 2024.

The authority says 298 new affordable homes have been secured across the district since then, including 171 homes for rent and 127 for shared ownership.

Of the rental properties, 56 are being provided at social rent.

Among the key developments highlighted by the council are 61 social rented homes at John Barker Place in Hitchin.

Elsewhere, 26 social rented homes have been delivered at Gary Grindal Court in Letchworth as part of a 100 per cent affordable housing scheme, while six social rented homes have been secured at the former Odyssey Health Club site in Knebworth.

The council's housing strategy focuses on three main priorities: providing more genuinely affordable homes, improving housing standards and strengthening homelessness prevention.

Over the past two years, 934 affordable housing lettings have been made through the Common Housing Register, with 75 per cent going to households in the top two priority bands.

Cllr Mick Debenham, Executive Member for Regulatory at North Herts Council, said: "Behind these figures are North Herts residents and families who need safe, secure, and affordable housing.

"Whether it is a family moving into a new home, a resident getting support to stay independent, or someone at risk of homelessness receiving help sooner, this work is making a real difference across the district.

"Housing pressures remain substantial, but this progress shows that targeted local action and strong partnership working are helping more residents get the support they need.

"I am very proud of the housing achievements to date and the positive impact it is having on people's lives."

The council says its housing team has also handled more than 2,000 housing and homelessness advice cases during the two-year period.

The proportion of homeless households helped into accommodation rose from 23 per cent to 45 per cent in 2025/26, according to the authority.

More than £107,000 has been provided through Discretionary Housing Payments and Homelessness Prevention Grants, while Citizens Advice homelessness prevention services have also received funding.

The council has supported the Herts Young Homeless education programme, which has reached nearly 1,000 young people in North Herts, and secured a specialist rough sleeper outreach service until April 2028.

In Hitchin, Anderson House has expanded the accommodation and support available locally.

The council says this has been accompanied by targeted projects supporting women facing homelessness and people with complex needs.

It also continues to work with Survivors Against Domestic Abuse to provide specialist support, emergency accommodation and outreach.

Other work under the strategy has focused on making homes safer and more energy efficient.

Installations were delivered in 12 homes during the first year of the Warm Homes: Local Grant programme, while further assistance has been provided through ECO Flex support and Home Upgrade Grant improvements.

Housing Repairs Assistance Grants and Disabled Facilities Grants have also been used to support residents to remain safe and independent in their homes.

The council says it has also prepared for the Renters' Rights Act through new policies, staff training and guidance for residents and landlords.

Cllr Debenham added: "As we continue to deliver the priorities highlighted in the strategy, we look forward to strengthening our partnerships and making the most of the opportunities offered by the forthcoming reorganisation of Hertfordshire councils."