July 2005
The Government is today (20 July 2005) announcing details for the delivery of
its Manifesto commitment to establish an Affordable Rural Housing
Commission to identify practical ways in which access to affordable
housing
for people in rural areas can be improved. Supported by, and reporting
to,
the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the
Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM), the new Commission will aim
to
report quickly on this important issue.
Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Margaret
Beckett, said:
"The availability of affordable housing is the key issue
for people living and working in rural areas, which is why the
Government
made a commitment in its rural manifesto to seek out practical and
innovative solutions, based on robust evidence.
"Without pre-judging this work, it is already clear that while the
causes
and experience of a lack of affordable housing are very similar in urban
and rural areas, the solutions for rural communities have to be tailored
to
take account of, for example, the environmental qualities of the
countryside, and the higher unit costs of development.
"I am delighted
that Elinor Goodman has agreed to chair this Commission. I look forward
to
receiving their report in March 2006."
Housing Minister, Baroness Andrews, said:
"Just as in urban areas, affordable housing helps create sustainable communities. It helps support diverse inclusive communities and local services. Conversely, a lack of affordable housing can make investment and economic regeneration more difficult.
"The Government has already taken positive steps to address this need in rural areas, including changes to the planning system. However, it is not just an issue for Government. Importantly it is about innovation and good practice at the local level, which I am expecting the Commission to highlight.''
The Affordable Rural Housing Commission will
consider any issues and possible solutions that impact on the demand and
supply of affordable housing in rural areas.
Further information:
When the Affordable Rural Housing Commission (ARHC) has completed its
work,
its Chairman, Elinor Goodman, is to be appointed to the Board of the
Countryside Agency, the statutory body working to make life better for
people in the countryside and the countryside better for everyone.