Angela Rayner, Labour Deputy Leader and Shadow Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, and local Labour candidate Alex McIntyre explored Barratt Bristol’s Winnycroft Development in Matson, Gloucester this week to find out more about the sustainable homes being built and the communities they support. Managing Director of Barratt Bristol Rob Hart talked through plans for the houses and the support introduced for first time buyers including a deposit contribution for local NHS and other key workers – effectively £1,000 towards a deposit for every £20,000 spent on a home.  The team discussed how energy efficiency measures at the houses could save families over £2,000 on their annual energy bills and about the investment being made to help the communities take shape around developments like this one. At Winnycroft, which is set in 15 acres of open space, that includes two sports pitches, play areas, allotments, a community building, hundreds of trees and shrubs and an orchard. 

“Labour is committed to getting Britain building so young people from this area, like those we met on this visit, can achieve their dream of owning their own home,” Alex McIntyre told us. “Building in Britain means more skilled jobs in cities like Gloucester and I was delighted on this tour to meet with some of the skilled local workers on site including their apprentices. Having local powers for skills and working in partnership with business are key to breaking down the barriers to opportunity for every child in the city.”

“Good quality sustainable housing is essential for areas like this one and Winnycroft, with its mix two-, three- and four-bedroom homes, is a prime example of what can be achieved and the communities we can help develop,” added Barratt’s Andrea Pilgrim.  “Our key worker deposit contribution is ensuring that first time buyers can get on the housing ladder quickly and the response so far has been fantastic.”