Definition of housing scheme

The term "housing scheme" originates from the 1930s in the United Kingdom as a result of the Housing Act 1930 that aimed to tackle the housing crisis by providing new homes for the growing urban population. The Act led to the establishment of housing associations, which were non-profit organizations that acquired land, built or acquired houses, and then rented them out to low-income families. These initiatives were referred to as "housing schemes," and they involved the implementation of strategic development plans that included details on the layout, design, and infrastructure required for the new communities. The term "housing scheme" became widely used in other parts of the world, including the United States, India, and Australia, where similar programs were introduced to address the housing shortage. Thus, the term "housing scheme" refers to a planned or organized housing development that fulfills certain social, economic, or environmental objectives. It often involves the provision of affordable housing to low- or middle-income households, as well as amenities such as schools, parks, and public transportation. The term can, therefore, be used to describe both public and private housing developments that are designed to meet specific needs and address societal challenges.