NEW analysis from the National Housing Federation reveals that 10 schools, 1,491 post offices and 260 pubs have closed down in the North and North-East over the last five years.

While businesses have been closing, house prices have become inflated, and are now out of reach for many local families.

Workers on average earnings in Northumberland are in need of a 71 per cent pay rise to be able to afford a mortgage, according to the statistics.

But leaders at housing association Karbon have said they areworking to deliver a lifeline for residents otherwise priced out of an area they’ve known all their lives.

Work is progressing on the development of 12 affordable homes in Newbrough. Karbon is leading on the development alongside main contractor Partner Construction from Spennymoor, County Durham.

The £1.7m development was funded by Karbon Homes with a significant contribution from the estate of local businessman Jack Charlton, who died in 2005 at the age of 94. Mr Charlton was known for his dedication to the villages of Newbrough and Fourstones, serving as a local councillor for many years.

In addition, Karbon is currently close to completion on a development of 22 family homes in Ovingham.

The £3m Cherryburn Lane development contains a mix of family homes and bungalows available for affordable rent and shared ownership.

Karbon has also recently completed work on eight homes in Bellingham, and is just starting work on a £1.2m project to build 10 bungalows in Amble, and a further four affordable homes in Acomb.

Vince Walsh, development and regeneration manager for Karbon Homes, said: “We know the demand for affordable housing is particularly high in rural areas.

“We often find that people have to leave areas where they were brought up and have family ties, or where they work because the cost of housing is just too high.

“So it’s vital that we provide affordable housing that helps these rural communities survive and thrive.”