Herefordshire’s Housing Need is Rural

Rural housing need in Herefordshire is often overshadowed by the larger numbers seen in market towns — but higher totals don’t mean greater need. In many villages, even a small shortage has a far deeper impact: young people are pushed out, local services struggle to survive, and businesses find it harder to recruit staff. With limited supply, high prices, and ageing homes, rural communities feel the strain most intensely. The real housing challenge lies in Herefordshire’s rural heartlands, where meeting local need is essential to keeping villages alive and thriving. 

To address this, partners across the county have launched Together for Rural Affordable Housing - Herefordshire, a collaborative campaign bringing communities, organisations, and decision‑makers together to unlock new possibilities. Led by Community First Herefordshire & Worcestershire’s Rural Housing Enabler project, and supported by hvoss and the Marches Community Led Housing Hub (MCLH), the campaign is building a strong coalition of parish councils, community groups, educators, landowners, housing associations, and the local authority. Their shared mission is to create the conditions for more affordable homes that support a thriving rural economy and vibrant community life. 

On 6 December, representatives from across the community, housing, development, and local authority sectors met to identify the key barriers holding back rural affordable housing — from planning capacity and land availability to funding models and community engagement. A multi‑stakeholder steering group has since been formed and met for the first time last week. It is now working to clarify the most promising options, explore new delivery models, and shape a coordinated approach that can deliver real change. 

The next major milestone will be a live session at NMITE on 6 February, where emerging insights and opportunities will be shared. 

Everyone who cares about the future of Herefordshire is invited to take part. Join the conversation, bring your ideas, and help shape what’s possible for rural affordable housing across our county. 

To book: rebeccas@comfirst.org.uk or search Eventbrite.