The discussion covered how the local housing market operates; and what do we think will be the consequences of the proposed phasing out of Help to Buy and will shared ownership products continue to be viable?
Due to the continuing housing crisis, more is expected than ever of the social housing sector. Housing associations and local councils are facing growing demand for social housing and affordable tenures but there is not enough supply.
The particular challenges in the South West are partly due to its niche market- very high demand and low salaries and many hard to reach locations.
One key factor in the delivery of new homes at scale has been collaboration; this approach has supported major delivery in Cranbrook and in the Cornwall Land Initiative and others and has to be the way forward.
Some local councils only have a partial insight into housing need as it now extends beyond their own registers and waiting lists – affordability is an issue for much of the population, regardless of age or social economic standing.
They also are still slow to understand the range of affordable tenures available as well as the broader range of affordable homes that NPPF has introduced.
“Blind tenure” can deliver more vibrant and cohesive communities yet rented housing is often challenged at the planning stage. In largely rural areas, existing communities with ageing residents are in danger of shrinking as younger people and jobs go elsewhere because housing costs are so high.
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Contributors:
Nick Burt , Partner
Trowers & Hamlins
Georgina Savill-James, Partner
Trowers & Hamlins
Emma Osmundsen, Managing Director
Exeter City Living
Barbara Shaw , Chief Executive
Westward Housing
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