Meeting the demand for affordable housing is one of the biggest challenges facing this country and it is right that the government prioritises it. Having a sustainable development programme for affordable housing will help kick start the economy, providing jobs and training and more importantly, meet a major social need in giving people warm, accessible and secure places to live.
However, the government should not be trying to bridge the gap created by major funding cuts by directing the sale of homes that housing associations already own. Our team advocates independence for housing associations to actively manage their housing stock and this could, in some circumstances, mean the sale of some housing stock in order to build more, but this is a decision for individual housing associations to make. There is a danger that following the advice of the report would simply lead to the exclusion of the less well off in our society from high-value areas.
What we need here is a more sustainable model for the development of new housing stock which can be led by the housing association sector. The government can aid this by removing the barriers that are stopping housing associations from developing new housing, for example providing certainty over future rents policy and creating realistic access to affordable funding.
Latest news
New code puts complaint handling in the spotlight
he updated Housing Ombudsman’s (HO) Complaint Handling Code (the New Code) will become a statutory requirement on 1 April 2024 and will bring a significant step change for registered providers (RPs).
Monday 25 March 2024
Read moreAnthony Collins appoints returning partner as new head of funding
Specialist law firm Anthony Collins (AC) has appointed a new head of funding, returning partner, Jon Coane. Jon brings with him over 25 years of experience as a social impact […]
Wednesday 13 March 2024
Read moreLatest webinars and podcasts
PODCAST: 12.07% holiday accrual is back… But not for everyone!
In the podcast we will outline the new Working Time Regulations legislation in detail, noting when the provisions coming into force, whilst also providing practical examples and guidance for employers across all sectors.
Friday 1 December 2023
Read moreRenters Reform Bill webinar – June 2023
The Renters Reform Bill proposes a seismic change to housing management practices, abolishing assured shorthold tenancies and 21 notices entirely and making changes relating to rent increases, pets, possession grounds and more.
Friday 18 August 2023
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