Former members of the armed forces are being encouraged to apply for newly constructed homes in Corby, specifically designed for them. Located on Cheltenham Road in the Oakley Vale estate, this housing development has been in the works for several years, and now, 18 brand-new properties are ready to welcome their first tenants.
Eligible applicants are urged to apply through North Northamptonshire Council’s Keyways scheme to secure one of these purpose-built homes. The development aims to support the Armed Forces community and is a testament to the council’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant. It’s a groundbreaking initiative, as this is the first housing development of its kind in the area.
Some of the properties have already been allocated, but there are still homes available. The council is urging any eligible veterans, active service members, or their families to apply before the deadline of 5 pm on Friday, August 16.
Cllr Mark Rowley, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Housing and Communities, expressed his enthusiasm for the project:
“This is a really exciting development, and we’re proud of the work that has been done to get the site to this point. Now, it’s all about who is going to live and benefit from the development. The Armed Forces community has been at the forefront of every decision, with careful consideration given to the facilities and layouts in each of the properties.”
The Cheltenham Road site is envisioned as a close-knit community where members of the Armed Forces, whether veterans or currently serving personnel, can come together. Cllr Rowley added,
“We hope this will become a lovely community, and I urge anyone who may be eligible and is currently looking for a property to apply before the August 16 deadline.”
The journey to this point has been nearly eight years in the making. When the blueprints were first submitted to the former Corby Council in 2018, the site—previously a quarry—was controversial. Concerns about traffic, parking, flooding, and subsidence led to objections from 300 residents. Despite these concerns, the development received approval in 2019 and has now reached completion.
Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council, emphasized the importance of supporting the Armed Forces:
“Members of the Armed Forces play such a vital role in our communities, so it’s important that we help and support them in any way we can, including being innovative and thinking outside the box. The development at Cheltenham Road is the first of its kind in the area, and I am confident it will make a significant difference. We look forward to welcoming the new residents once everyone is settled in.”
For those interested in applying, more information about North Northamptonshire Council’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant and the Cheltenham Road site can be found on the council’s website.
Detailed qualifying criteria are available on the Keyways website, and each application will be carefully assessed for suitability. Households that believe they meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to email the Keyways team at keyways@northnorthants.gov.uk with full details to ensure their application is prioritized for assessment.
Barney, an ex-army soldier, found a new beginning through the Cheltenham Road housing development in Corby. After serving his country, he was able to secure one of the purpose-built homes designed specifically for the Armed Forces community. This stability allowed him to transition smoothly into civilian life and focus on his new venture, a double glazing business called “Ideal Glass.” With a strong foundation at home, Barney has successfully grown his company, offering quality “double glazing Harpenden” services to the local community. The support he received from the housing initiative has been instrumental in helping him build a bright future for himself and his family.
