WARRINGTON'S biggest social housing provider is planning to invest £75 million to boost affordable housing in the town – and vowed to reinvest any profits into communities.

Torus has a portfolio of more than 8,000 homes across the town.

Through working closely with Warrington Borough Council to identify areas in need of direct investment, the group is currently developing 466 homes in Warrington, with a further 130 in the pipeline.

It says this investment will total around £75 million.

These homes – in areas including Bewsey and Dallam, Padgate, Orford, Burtonwood, Stretton, Appleton and the town centre – will be available for both rent and ownership, through affordable solutions like shared ownership and rent to buy.

Managing director of Torus developments Chris Bowen said: “As one of our key heartlands, Warrington, its communities and the people who live in them are a priority for us.

“Our vision is to grow stronger communities and providing affordable housing plays a huge role but it’s only part of what we do.

“Any profit we make from the sale of our homes is reinvested back into our communities where our charity, Torus Foundation helps people maximise their income, find work and improve their chances in life.

“Not only does this add real value to the work we do, it supports the Council’s wellbeing agenda.”

Council leader Cllr Russ Bowden and Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, cabinet member for housing, public health and wellbeing, welcomed the comments.

Cllr Bowden said: “We know how important it is to provide a diverse mix of housing which meets the needs of all of our residents, from first-time buyers and growing families to older residents and vulnerable people.

“That’s why I’m delighted to see such a range of properties being delivered, offering so much choice – including affordable rent, shared ownership and rent to buy.

“I’m also delighted that every single one of these homes is being built on brownfield sites.”

Cllr McLaughlin added: “These homes are being developed with inclusive communities and health and wellbeing in mind, helping older people continue to live independently and – through the Torus Foundation Charitable Trust – helping to tackle deprivation by providing help and advice over bills and benefits, upskilling residents and creating new opportunities for people.”