AN affordable housing group has opened a new development featuring 11 homes near Pershore.

Festival Housing launched the £1.3 million scheme in Drakes Broughton which features a mix of bungalows and two and three-bedroomed houses.

The group says the homes are well insulated and built with energy efficiency in mind. Part of the cost was covered by a Homes and Communities Agency grant.

Festival’s chief executive, Guy Weston, said: “It’s no secret that there is a real shortage of this type of housing in rural communities. We are very pleased to be building affordable rented homes for local people in Worcestershire. We have worked hard to make sure we are investing in the types of homes people want.”

Under Wychavon District Council guidelines the properties can only be allocated to those living in the area or with a strong local connection.

Elaine Salter, housing services manager with the council, said: “It’s great to see this project come to fruition. More affordable housing is essential especially in rural areas and we’re pleased to be working with Festival Housing to deliver these much needed homes to the area.”