Published: Wednesday, 14th October 2026
Cannock Chase Council have celebrated the completion of 29 affordable homes, the first to be built to a Future Homes Standard.
Delivered on the land previously occupied by Aelfgar School in Rugeley, the homes form part of the 58 house Farriers Fold development, built by Lovell Partnership and include a mix of two, three and four bedroom properties.
The project demonstrates how local authorities can work with experienced private sector development partners to bring forward much-needed affordable homes and make use of their own land to support local housing delivery.
Residents, partners and local councillors came together to celebrate the completion of the development at a special event hosted by Lovell. The occasion provided an opportunity for residents to speak directly with representatives from Lovell and the Council and discuss any questions they had about their property.
A dedicated trailer was also on site during the event to demonstrate how to use the air source heat pumps effectively to help residents get the most from the energy-efficient technology in their homes. These measures have the potential to support lower energy use and running costs, while providing warm and comfortable homes for residents.
Councillor Melissa Cecil, Portfolio Leader for Housing and Corporate Assets said: “As the first council homes in the district built to Future Homes Standard, these properties set a new benchmark for energy efficiency and sustainability.
“This achievement forms part of the wider delivery of 58 new homes made possible through our successful partnership with housing specialist Lovell. Working together, we have demonstrated what can be achieved through a shared commitment to providing quality, affordable housing and investing in our communities. I wish all new residents every happiness as they begin the next chapter in their new homes."
Chantel Cresswell, head of partnerships at Lovell in the West Midlands, said: “Farriers Fold is a strong example of what can be achieved when local authorities and experienced development partners work together to deliver much-needed council-owned homes. By working alongside Cannock Chase Council to bring forward this scheme, we have helped to provide new affordable homes that will support local people and contribute to easing pressure on the council’s housing waiting list.
“This partnership has enabled us to build the council’s first affordable homes since 2021, as well as the very first homes it has delivered to the Future Homes Standard, something we’re incredibly proud of.”
The completion of Farriers Fold comes at a time when local authorities are being encouraged by the government to play a greater role in delivering the homes their communities need, supporting wider ambitions to increase the supply of affordable housing.