Register if you want to build your own home

Northumberland County Council’s self and custom-build register is open to individuals or groups interested in building their own home, either themselves or by employing a contractor.

The register is designed to help the council gauge the level of interest for this type of development in Northumberland and, among other things, reveal the areas where people most want to build. Landowners can also put forward plots of land that could be suitable for a self or custom-build project.

Cabinet member for economic growth at Northumberland County Council, Coun Allan Hepple, said: “This register can benefit both the council and would-be developers.

“By signing up to the register, people can help us find out more about the number and location of self-build and custom build plots required and the types of property people would like to construct or have built for them.

“Self-build homes can be cheaper, greener and more innovatively-designed than standard market housing and can offer a real alternative to buying off-the-peg houses that may not meet a household’s needs.

“Signing up to the register can support budding self-builders in their search for a plot by increasing awareness among developers and landowners of the likely demand for self and custom build. Registering a plot of land also helps the council in exploring opportunities to bring forward sites to meet demand.”

People interested in building their own home, or registering a plot of land, can fill out the relevant form or find out more information at www.northumberland.gov.uk