Disney to build entire housing complex right next to theme park – and they’re starting work next year
DISNEY has announced that they are building a housing complex right next to Disney World in Florida.
The company has committed to creating an 80-acre affordable housing project, with work starting next year.
They hope is that the complex will be ready to open by 2026, they have stated in .
They wrote: "We’ve been making more and more progress on this initiative every day, and now, we’re thrilled to share that groundbreaking on this development is targeted for next year, with the first units anticipated to be completed in 2026."
Disney also announced that they would be building more properties now than they had initially expected, which they hope will create more jobs.
They continued: "We are also expanding our vision to now include approximately 1,400 total units – over 100 higher than we had initially announced.
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"We hope to make a positive impact wherever we can in our community, so to be able to offer more units means even more Florida families will get access to attainable housing, in addition to creating new Florida jobs as part of the construction and operation."
The houses will be built close to the Flamingo Crossings town centre, which is a hotel, shopping, and dining district developed by Walt Disney World.
It contains budget-friendly accommodation and is located just minutes from the parks.
The inhabitants of the new homes will be close to the resort once they have moved in - making it a great place for Disney fanatics to consider living.
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President of Walt Disney World Jeff Vahle has previously claimed the houses will help the company put something back into the Florida community.
In December, he said: “For more than 50 years, Walt Disney World has cared for and invested in our community, and we’re committed to being a part of this solution, which will bring more attainable housing to Central Florida."
John O’Donnell, CEO of the Michaels Organisation, who will develop the properties, said: “We are excited to work with an iconic brand like Disney to deliver attainable housing for the Central Florida community."
The news was greeted pretty favourably by people in America who responded to the Disney blog post.
One wrote: "Thank you, Disney, for doing your part in helping those who need it."
Another said: "Where can I sign up for them?"
Others asked who would be eligible for the properties and while exact details of that haven't been confirmed, Disney did state in their blog: "The development, which is planned to be privately financed, will be limited to applicants within a certain income range."
Artist's concept pictures show what the housing complex could look like, although Disney point out that they're subject to change.
Disney also has plans to build a whole residential town which will have homes, a hotel and even a huge lagoon near Palm Springs in California.
Disney Imagineers, who design everything at the theme parks, will be behind the huge project, although it won't be linked to Disneyland.
Cotino will be a 618-acre development near Palm Springs as part of Disney's new Storyliving communities, which will be “infused with the company’s special brand of magic".
Disney said in a statement: "These master-planned communities are intended to inspire residents to foster new friendships, pursue their interests and write the next exciting chapter in their lives — all while enjoying the attention to detail, unique amenities and special touches that are Disney hallmarks."
There will be 1,900 houses, ranging from single-family homes to larger properties, as well as a neighbourhood for residents over 55.
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Meanwhile, Disney World has 14-day tickets for the price of 7 including freebies – saving you hundreds.
And if you're looking for a theme park closer to home, Thorpe Park has overnight stays from £92pp during school summer holidays, with 2-day park entry and breakfast.
