Winchester council is setting up its own agency to let and manage privately rented homes.

Venta Living pledges to provide “high quality, energy efficient homes offering assured short-term tenancies and a wider choice of new homes for private renters across the district.”

The first homes available will be within the Winnall Flats redevelopment where 41 one-bedroom flats will be available to rent privately through Venta Living Limited.

The new homes have been built by Wates Construction, who built the existing four blocks back in the 1960s. 

A council spokesperson says: “I’m proud of this council’s focus to provide homes for all, and we are very aware of the need for more high quality privately rented homes in our district. The creation of Venta Living Ltd allows us to offer high quality, secure short-term tenancies for people who choose to rent privately. 

“We care about the quality of the homes, and we care about the wider sense of community. Our homes are designed with this in mind with the public space and landscaping carefully designed for people. 

“The homes are very energy efficient, so not only will they be warm and comfortable – they’ll save people money on their bills too.  I really look forward to these homes becoming a popular and comfortable place for people in our district to live.”  

In addition to the 41 rented apartments, the remaining 35 properties on the 76-home development will also include three two-bedroom houses and 32 one and two bed flats which will be sold through shared ownership.