Alex Chalk MP has welcomed the Prime Minister's announcement of £2bn to build new homes as a major opportunity for Cheltenham.

Under the plan, housing associations, councils and other organisations will be able to bid for the money to spend on new projects.

The government has already provided £3m to kick start the failed brownfield development on Portland Street.

Alex Chalk (pictured) said: "This is a great opportunity for our local housing associations. It will give them the cash and confidence to develop the new schemes that are needed in Cheltenham by young people and families looking for their first home. I am contacting all the local associations to encourage and support them in making bids.

David Orr, chief executive of the National Housing Federation, said the announcement was extremely welcome.

He said: "This represents a total step change. For years, the way that money was allocated meant housing associations couldn't be sure of long-term funding to build much-needed affordable housing."

He went on to say that the award had given "long-term confidence and confirmed that we are trusted partners in solving the housing crisis, building new homes and communities".

Alex Chalk has been calling for a Cheltenham Strategy to bring brownfield and long-empty retail space back into use as homes for young people. He urged the local council to seize the opportunity.

"This is a major opportunity to bring derelict and long-term vacant sites into the housing equation. The challenge of 21st century shopping patterns give us the chance to think again. The example of the old Springbank shopping centre, which was replaced by homes, shows what can be done here in Cheltenham. With energy and imagination, we can unlock opportunity for our young people."

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