A NEW register has been launched to help people who want to build their own home.

Pendle Council has set up a new initiative, Self-Build and Custom Housebuilding Register, which seeks to establish the level of interest, the types of houses people would like to build and the preferred locations.

When plots of council owned land become available people on the register will be the first to hear about them and will be given priority to buy one.

The council will refer to the register when carrying out planning, housing and regeneration functions.

Cllr Paul White, leader of Pendle Council, said: “This is a great opportunity to match people with available land and boost housebuilding locally.

“Custom and self-build homes are often innovatively designed and can be cheaper, greener and more affordable than standard market housing.

"“Being on the register doesn’t guarantee that a suitable plot will become available in your preferred area.

“But it does mean that we can inform you of any opportunities as they come up and understand the demand for self-build in Pendle."

People can join the register by completing a form via www.pendle.gov.uk/righttobuild