A council is planning to “deliver homes at a faster rate than ever before” by building more than double the amount it originally set out.

Thanet District Council previously pledged to build 160 houses by 2027, but has unveiled plans to roll out 400 by the same date.

The new properties will cost over £7 million in funding and 51 homes will be brought to the district this year in the proposals.

The decision, which is recommended for approval, is to be discussed at a council meeting on July 13.

Cabinet member for housing Helen Whitehead hopes the new programme will ease renting pressures for residents.

She said: “Having access to genuinely affordable housing is a huge concern for many Thanet residents; if we can provide that, we relieve many of the pressures that residents are currently facing, and as an administration we are determined to do so.

“Regeneration brings many positives; but without key infrastructure, such as affordable housing, regeneration can quickly become gentrification, and it is residents within the private rental sector who are often most affected by this; we can and will work to support residents in need, and provide genuinely affordable housing at a rate that will make a difference.

The deputy leader explained how an increasing number of Thanet residents are finding themselves on the street, and that the council is working to provide more temporary housing and homes.

She added: “We will deliver them at a faster rate than we have ever done before, because protecting and supporting all of our community in Thanet is essential.”

“Between 2015 and 2023 we delivered an average of 18 homes per year as a council; we are pledging now to deliver at least 100 a year for the next four years so that we can support residents at a time when they most need support.”

“I know that Members understand the importance of delivering housing to support residents; I look forward to working together as a council to take this programme forward.”