THE COUNCIL's approach to housing has been recognised with an award, despite prices rising at more the double the rate of inflation.

Wokingham Borough Council (WBC) has been awarded ‘Housing Business Ready’ status by the Housing & Finance Institute (HFI), in recognition of its approach and the culture it fosters around developments.

To win status councils have to think strategically about housing delivery, take into account residents’ wants and needs, while building lots of homes.

Last year, Wokingham Borough Council built more affordable houses than any year since the 2008 financial crash, and is looking to double that number in 2017/18, with more than 1,000 homes built a year in total.

While WBC is clearly increasing supply, demand continues to push prices higher.

According to Zoopla, the average value of a house in Wokingham is £510,659, £122,663 more than five years ago.

If house prices were in line with inflation, the average cost of a home in Wokingham would be £450,000.

Regardless, residents appear happy with their lot.

A recent survey found 84 per cent freshly moved in new-build owners were satisfied with their properties, up four per cent in a year.

On top of this, 92 per cent felt the buildings and streets were attractive, a six per cent rise in a year.

Cllr Charlotte Haitham Taylor, Leader of the Council, said: “I am delighted that Wokingham has been awarded Housing Business Ready status.

“I want to thank all those councillors and officers who have helped ensure that we have the right approach to delivering high-quality housing for our residents.

“Ensuring that everyone has a home, and that every person who wants to own one can, are key priorities of the Conservative leadership of this Council.”

Last year 114 households were certified homeless by the council, with the end of an assured shorthold tenancy the reason for the loss of a home in 42 per cent of cases.