It’s after a report by council officers outlined the increasing risks associated with residential developments.

Rising interest rates and additional costs during the economic crisis are to blame.

The document concluded it is no longer preferable or appropriate for the authority to directly “bear these risks.”

Spelthorne launched a borough wide housing delivery programme in 2018 after identifying a need for more affordable, keyworker and private rental homes.

The council says residents “can be assured that this suspension will give the Council the opportunity to assess all possible options.”