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The Affordable Housing Document

By: Christine Whitfield BA (hons) - Updated: 16 Sep 2012 | comments*Discuss
 
Delivering Affordable Housing Government

It has long been a way of British life to own a house. It is, and always has been, part of our culture. Whereas in some areas of Europe home ownership is neither a priority nor a desire in Britain it has always been both for the large majority of the population. However at the moment getting on the property ladder is harder than ever.

What is the Problem with Affordable Housing?

House prices are higher than they have ever been and for the average person on an average wage securing a mortgage that is both large enough to buy a suitable property and affordable to pay back is near on impossible - which is why the Government, in conjunction with various lenders, has devised a series of schemes and initiatives to help homeowners purchase at least a stake in a property if not all of it.

The Delivering Affordable Housing Document

The Government has released a document outlining the need for affordable housing and the ways in which it aims to rectify the situation. It claims the document intends to act as a support to local authorities who's job it is to address the problem in each area.

When was it Released?

The document was released in November 2006, which shows the issue is a long running one and not one that has simply come about because of the current economic climate and interest rate rises.

What does the Delivering Affordable Housing Document say?

According to the document the Government thinks having an affordable home is a right that everyone should have. It recognises that a range of housing must be built in order to give people this right. It also claims rented houses should be more affordable.

The document states three goals that must be met. The first is that of developing good quality housing. The second is making the option of home ownership more widely available and the third is providing better quality and flexibility for those people that rent.

What does the Document say Local Authorities Should do?

According to the document the role of local authorities is hugely important which is why the document was developed to specify what their roles are. It claims Local Authorities should take part in the planning of any schemes and the decision making involved in attempting to find a solution.

The authorities should also play a leading role in meeting the increasing demand for housing both now and in the future and ensure the right areas are catered for.

Changes to the Affordable Housing Document

Just as the issue of affordable housing is continuously developing and changing so the Affordable Housing Document must constantly be reassessed. The Government, in particular the Communities and Local Government office, has admitted the document will be subject to vigorous changes as the issue progresses. It is hoped the ideas laid out by the Government in general and by the Document will move the problem on and help take steps to improving the situation.

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