Builders could be at work creating some 22,000 new affordable homes within weeks, according to the House Builder's Federation (HBF).

The government announced this month that 270 house building projects have been shortlisted to receive a share of £925 million of funding designed to kick-start developments that have stalled.

As well as creating more affordable homes for the UK, the extra cash is hoped to create 20,000 jobs within the construction industry.

Steve Turner, head of communications at the HBF, said the money is very welcome although it remains to be seen how quickly it can be processed so that it can filter through.

"There are enough sites out there to meet the criteria so it is a very positive step and the criteria is aimed at getting sites started as quickly as possible," he commented.

Some £1.2 billion has been planned for investment in housing this year by the government, including £500 million to support construction in local communities.

Source: Direct News 28/07/09