The council-led project in Otley Road has seen a former empty retail unit converted into four one-bedroom apartments. 

At the Council’s Executive meeting held on 20 July 2022, councillors agreed to lease the properties to an affordable housing provider for an initial period of five years. It is expected that rent on the flats would be charged at 80% of the open market rate. 

The council’s housing team has already identified a need for affordable one-bedroom properties in the town. 

Speaking at the meeting, Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Marion Fitzgerald, said: “We have a commitment to help people with their housing needs. Therefore, I'm really pleased to be able to recommend that we lease these properties to an affordable housing provider.  

“Housing is such a hot topic in Keswick where demand is extremely high. We want to do everything we can to help people – such as those who work in the town on a low income – to be able to afford to live there too. This proposal will also mean that the properties will remain in the rental market for those who want to live in the town.  

“This project has also brought an empty building back into use, and due to the location of the properties in the centre of the town, will help to maintain a thriving town centre.” 

The properties are due to be finally completed in the early Autumn.

At the end of the five-year period, a longer-term decision on the future use of the flats can be taken by the new Cumberland Council unitary authority. 

Further details of the meeting can be found on the council's website.