25 Oct 2013

$17m boost for social housing in Christchurch

5:01 pm on 25 October 2013

Christchurch's social housing supply is getting a $17.3 million boost from the Government and community organisations, allowing 51 homes to be built.

Housing Minister Nick Smith made the announcement on Friday afternoon, saying the city's housing shortage is driving up house prices and rents.

Dr Smith says there is a real housing challenge in Christchurch with the loss of so many homes in the earthquakes and the increased demand from the expanded workforce to support the rebuild.

The 51 homes will be built in three developments across the city.

Dr Smith says nearly $9 million of the money comes from the Government's Social Housing Fund, and the rest is from local community organisations.