In part two of our series, we learn how and why housing has become unaffordable for so many, leaving millions locked out of the dream of homeownership and trapped in a spiral of rising rents. The concept of a 'housing ladder' is embedded in our politics and culture. We trace the history and speak to experts, including politicians of different parties, who explain why they believe the ladder is broken. We explore the impact on society and the wider economy - with experts warning that the housing crisis is stifling productivity. What can the state do? How far should the government intervene in the market? We visit Scotland where controversial rent controls have been introduced. And we get to grips with a central question in housing policy. If the UK government succeeds in supplying 1.5 million new homes, will that make housing more affordable? Contributors include Kirstie Allsopp, Michael Gove, Gavin Barwell, Steve Reed, Matthew Pennycook, Andy Haldane. Kate Barker and George Young.
The thinktank IPPR North and the charity Crisis warn that the rate of homelessness in England will rise by 25% – equivalent to about 50,000 people – by 2030 without bold action reaching 230,000 The analysis by IPPR North and Crisis, based on government figures, suggests that the number of people owed a homelessness duty […]
Shelter denies social housing: "By social housing we mean social rent homes. These homes have rents linked to local incomes and provide a truly affordable, secure housing option for people across the country. We don’t mean affordable rent, shared ownership, or any other so-called ‘affordable’ tenure. "Social rent homes have rents set by a formula […]
As the Faversham Neighbourhood Plan reminds you “Genuinely Affordable housing should be provided that contributes to creating mixed and balanced communities.” Since 2018 across Swale just 149 social rent homes have been delivered, 3.1% of the total. Just 27 were in Faversham. Successive professional housing needs surveys have pointed to unmet need in Faversham In […]