Families facing housing challenges are set to receive support through an increase in authority for mayors, ensuring the construction of suitable homes in their localities.
Regional mayors will now have enhanced decision-making power to advise developers on the necessary types of housing required in their communities, whether it be for the elderly, high-rise apartments, or council dwellings.
The Government’s groundbreaking £39 billion Social and Affordable Homes Programme has allocated suggested budget plans to six regional mayors. This funding will enable mayors, in collaboration with Homes England, to formulate crucial housing strategies that will assist housing providers in making funding requests in February.
Housing Secretary Steve Reed recently engaged with social and affordable housing providers to encourage ambitious funding proposals within the program. Emphasizing the urgent need to address housing shortages, homelessness, and insecure living conditions, Reed stressed the importance of accelerating housing construction.
Empowering local authorities, including mayors and councils, is key to addressing housing needs effectively. By entrusting them with the control to determine the types of homes to be constructed, tailored solutions can be implemented based on localized requirements.
The proposed spending allocations suggest that Greater Manchester is likely to receive the highest budget at £1.8 billion, followed by the West Midlands at £1.6 billion, the North East at £1.1 billion, and West Yorkshire at £1 billion. Liverpool City Region and South Yorkshire are anticipated to receive £700 million each.
These indicative figures are intended to facilitate early planning by mayors, with the possibility of further funding being directed to specific areas through official bids.
While initial spending plans have been disclosed for the most established authorities, funds will be distributed nationwide. London has already been allocated £11.7 billion over a ten-year period.
Sarah Elliott, CEO of Shelter, highlighted the housing affordability crisis, underscoring the necessity for more social rent homes to alleviate pressure on families struggling with high private rents and inadequate affordable housing options. She emphasized the importance of setting ambitious targets for social rent delivery to combat homelessness effectively.
The government’s commitment to investing in housing solutions is commendable, but sustained efforts and increased targets are crucial to ensuring long-term housing security for all individuals and families in need.
