Hertsmere Borough Council has approved the purchase of a large property in Bairstow Close, Borehamwood, which will be converted into two high-quality family homes for social rent.

The acquisition — backed by funding through the Government’s Local Authority Housing Fund — will help meet an urgent need for larger affordable homes across the borough. The conversion is expected to deliver two spacious, energy-efficient homes suitable for families currently on the council’s housing waiting list.

With demand for three- and four-bedroom homes at an all-time high, this innovative project represents a practical and cost-effective way of increasing local housing supply while making best use of existing properties.

Cllr Jeremy Newmark, Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council, said:

“Our decision shows how we’re making serious progress on plugging the affordable housing gap that we inherited from the Conservatives. These much needed family-sized homes will offer greater space, stability and hope to local families who’ve been waiting and worrying.

With this investment, we’re providing opportunities for families to live, grow and thrive here in Hertsmere. I’m proud that this administration is delivering on our promise to be proactive and innovative in delivering the kind of modern affordable homes that local people need.”

Cabinet Member for Communities, Cllr Chris Gray, added:

“We’re determined to make every penny of public money count. By acquiring and adapting an existing property, we can deliver more homes faster — and for less — than new-build schemes would allow. This is exactly the kind of smart, community-focused investment we want to see more of.”

The council’s decision forms part of its broader commitment to tackling the housing shortage in Hertsmere through a combination of new build, acquisitions, and partnerships with housing providers.

Work on converting the property will begin later this year, with families expected to move in during 2026.