Housing Challenges in Lancashire September 2011

On-going Issues Deprived neighbourhoods with very poor housing conditions (mostly privately rented), under more pressure in poor economic conditions Pressure of demand on existing housing stock in better neighbourhoods – unaffordable for most to buy without existing equity, and very limited affordable housing Continuing unavailability of mortgage finance, employment uncertainty and reducing real incomes Concentrations of deprivation and high support needs in social housing Increasing numbers of older people who require specialist support

- Support the local economy and meet long term demand for housing as household numbers rise by increasing rates of new building - Provide more of the affordable homes that are in the highest demand - Create a more attractive residential offer with a wider range of house types and increased owner occupation Priorities for Action – New Homes and Tackling structural issues

- Tackle inappropriate types of accommodation and poor housing conditions in the private rented sector and improve management - Reduce concentrations of deprivation on large social housing estates by improving the neighbourhood environments, re-developing unpopular housing stock, and diversifying tenures - Improve housing conditions for people who are vulnerable because they are older or on low incomes, and reduce carbon emissions Priorities for action – Improving the quality of the housing stock

Priorities for action - Helping people access accommodation and support Provide new opportunities for people at risk of homelessness / “socially excluded” – holistic approach co-ordinated with health and social services Meet the changing requirements of older people and those requiring long term care through the provision of the right mix of specialist accommodation, adaptations, and support

Policy Challenges Role of social rented housing Fixed term tenancies to move people on when they earn more or under-occupy Rents will go up through affordable rent regime to be closer to market rents A safety net tenure of last resort vs. balanced communities vs. reward for people who deserve it Local connection vs. mobility and choice % of voids to be sold on open market % of voids transferred to affordable rent

Policy Challenges 2. Role of new affordable housing tenures

Policy Challenges Use of private rented sector (PRS) housing options Satisfy duty to assist priority homeless Rent bonds Local lettings agencies New Planning Framework Localism vs “sustainable” development Set your own targets based on your own evidence base New Homes Bonus and link to empty homes (and demolitions)

Policy Challenges Limited resources Worsening viability of new development Continuing unavailability of mortgage finance and reducing incomes Reduced capital funding for new affordable housing delivery No capital funding for local authorities to address problems in the private sector Public sector revenue funding cuts, especially in social care