THE supply of affordable housing in the Vale was boosted this week with the news of a cash bonanza from the government's Housing Corporation.

Housing associations in the Wychavon district have been awarded £4.6 million to fund the development of 82 affordable homes over the next two years.

The cash is part of a £22.6 million investment in Worcestershire was announced yesterday and will provide 525 new affordable homes across the county in the 2006-08 programme.

Wychavon transferred all its housing stock to housing associations in 1994.

Since then the council has had a strategic role in enabling the development of affordable housing in the district.

By working in partnership with the housing associations and supporting bids to the Housing Corporation for funding, it has helped to develop much-needed additional affordable housing. It is the top priority in the council's housing strategy.

Kath Smith, housing services manager, said: "This funding will help to provide much-needed affordable housing in this area for local people."

Peter Rogers, Housing Corporation spokesman for the West Midlands, said: "Today we have reiterated our clear commitment to meet the housing needs of Worcestershire residents."

He explained: "Affordable homes have a vital role to play in communities, giving people the comfort and stability they need and helping create truly successful and long-lasting communities.

"In particular, this investment will produce high quality homes in sustainable urban locations, increasing the opportunities for affordable home ownership and addressing the continued need for affordable rented homes, both of which have been particular issues for Worcestershire."