PEOPLE struggling to get a foot on the housing ladder in Wyre Forest are being given a multi-million pound boost.

The Government has awarded just over £6 million in funding towards development of 162 new homes in the district.

That will supplement a further £13 million being contributed between the two housing association groups that will develop and manage the homes, Community Housing Group and Bromford Housing Group.

The new housing could consist of a range of rental and shared ownership over the next two years.

Yvonne Leishman, Community Housing Group manager, said: "We are delighted at the news and believe that this funding will enable us to achieve one of our main objectives - bringing new homes into the district.

"It also brings hope to many people who are in housing need."

Councillor Anne Hingley, Wyre Forest District Council's cabinet member for housing, said: "We need more affordable homes in the Wyre Forest area and this is a real boost.

"I am pleased for families, with the provision of new homes to rent and also for young people, particularly first-time buyers, as it helps them get a foot on the housing ladder."