Housing co-operatives are common in many parts of the world. In Berlin around 15% of all new homes being built in the city are being developed by housing co-operatives. However, despite their popularity in other countries, they have been relatively uncommon in the UK.
But things are changing. In May 2019, government research revealed that there are plans for over 16,600 community-led homes to be developed, this is triple the estimate from two years ago.
Long established housing cooperative are growing – building new homes and welcoming new members. And new co-operatives are setting up, as people look to find their own solutions to beat the housing crisis.
As the community led-housing movement grows, people are taking action and building decent homes that the country so desperately needs.