A local housing association has promised to build dozens of affordable homes despite "vigorous" opposition from locals.

Rooftop Housing Group will build 45 new shared ownership houses with the company saying that many local families are being priced out of the housing market.

Development director David Hannon explained that property prices have rocketed in the last year

“With average house prices at £276,759, nearly 10 per cent higher than this time last year, there needs to be more options for families getting on to the housing ladder,” he said.

“We are building 45 new shared ownership homes this year out of a total of 154 affordable homes, but more needs to be done.”

Mr Hannon added that there has been a backlash to some of their developments, but believes the work is essential.

He said: “We are working with parishes, town, and local councils, and MPs to plan and build the most appropriate homes for south Worcestershire and north Gloucestershire.

“Local opposition to development is often vigorous, and we understand that it is a really complex and emotive issue, however, as prices rise (especially in rural areas) local families are priced out.

“We want to build more affordable homes for local people, so they can stay in the areas they love.”

Rooftop say that shared ownership is a way of helping people in a variety of situations get a foot on the property ladder, including first time buyers and homeowners who can through no fault of their own afford to stay in their current premises.

The scheme allows people to purchase homes with a minimum of a 10 per cent share with Rooftop stating that they will contribute towards structural repairs and essential external repairs for the first decade after it is built.

Shared owners pay rent on the remaining share of the property but can purchases more shares, thus reducing rent, as their circumstances change.