MORE than 100 more affordable homes are to be built in York, thanks to successful bids for government funding.

The Housing Corporation has supported a £3.3 million bid for 2004/5, which will fund 61 affordable homes, while support for a further £2.3 million of bids will lead to the building of 47 more the following year.

Julie Thirlwell, the council's investment and development manager, said the extra money was good news.

"While there is still a gap between the homes we need and the number we can provide, we will certainly be ensuring that we do as much as we can with the money that has been allocated.

"These grants enable us to proceed with some key schemes around the city."

The council says the funding means that the foundations are now in place for affordable housing during phase one of the Derwenthorpe scheme, at Osbaldwick, provided outline planning permission is granted, and more affordable housing can also be created in Bramham Road, Chapelfields.

Coun Sue Sunderland, the council's executive member for housing, said the money would make a significant contribution to

meeting the need for affordable housing in York.

"The state of the housing market means that home ownership is becoming an increasingly distant aspiration for many individuals and we have a clear commitment to helping these people," she said.

Coun Ruth Potter, Labour's housing spokeswoman, also welcomed the news, saying: "Affordable housing is a major issue in York and it is excellent news that the Government is funding these extra homes in the city.

"The Government is doing its bit - by putting in this extra money - and the council has to play its part by working to secure more affordable housing from new developments."

She said the funding meant an exciting new development in Danebury Drive can go ahead, which would make a real difference to the local area by providing not only much-needed new housing, but also by giving the whole area "a bit of a lift."

Updated: 08:24 Wednesday, May 12, 2004