North Yorkshire mayoral elections candidate announces new ‘Half-Price Homes’ scheme to help first-time buyers

As part of his new initiative on affordable housing, Keane Duncan says, if elected, he will drive the construction of hundreds more new-build homes sold at a discount of up to 50 per cent of the market value.

And he will also set-up a new ‘Half-Price Homes’ online portal where first-time buyers can browse and reserve discounted properties.

“Owning a home shouldn’t be an unattainable dream," said Mr Duncan.

"For too many people of my generation, a home of their own is out of reach.

“I’m committed to supporting hard-working people on to the housing ladder.

"That’s why ‘Half-Price Homes’ will be a key priority if I am elected mayor.

“Unlike shared ownership, buyers will own 100 per cent of the home straight away and pay no rent.

"What is more, the discounted homes will be the same quality and size of market homes.”

The plan by Mr Duncan, who is hoping to emerge triumphant in May’s contest to elect a Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, represents a major expansion of the government’s national ‘First Homes’ scheme.

Under the national initiative, homes are discounted by at least 30 per cent, and up to 50 per cent, of the market value.

The discounts apply to the homes in perpetuity, meaning generations of new buyers will continue to benefit every time the property is sold.

In Mr Duncan’s proposals as would-be mayor, the first sale must be at a price no higher than £250,000 after the discount is applied.

It is open to first-time buyers who have a household income not exceeding £80,000, be they individuals or couples.

People with local connections, lower incomes, or jobs in key sectors can be prioritised under local eligibility criteria.

The homes are classed as affordable housing for planning purposes, and funded by developer contributions.

Mr Duncan added: “I want to encourage and incentivise developers to choose to offer more ‘Half-Price Homes’ as part of their affordable housing obligations.”

York and North Yorkshire Mayor election: The candidates

The Conservative Party’s candidate is Keane Duncan, North Yorkshire Council’s Executive Member for Highways and Transportation.

The Labour Party’s candidate is York business leader David Skaith, who was born in Harrogate.

The Liberal Democrats have chosen Felicity Cunliffe-Lister, the owner of Swinton Park, Felicity Cunliffe-Lister.

The Green Party candidate is former soldier Kevin Foster.

The sole independent is Keith Tordoff, former police officer and small business owner, who is backed by Reform UK.