Housing affordability report is published

Social Development Minister David Hanson MP today welcomed Sir John Semple’s Final Report from his Review into Affordable Housing.

The Minister said: “I want to thank Sir John and his team for all their work. This report is a vital piece of work that examines the range of measures available to Government to influence the affordability of housing. The review was completed very quickly at my request and is an independent assessment of the issues and challenges facing Northern Ireland. There was consultation with communities, their representatives and across the public and private sectors and this is reflected in the scope of the recommendations.

“The report is complemented by important research by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and the Universities of Ulster and Glasgow on the operation of the housing market. Advice NI, together with partner voluntary sector organisations, also carried out research into the impact of restricted housing choice.

“Choice about which housing option is right for a particular household’s circumstance is not just about when and how to enter home-ownership although this is an important element. Creating real housing options for people, especially those at the margins of the market, is also about delivering social housing for rent and supporting the growth of a quality, private rented sector. The Promoting Social Inclusion Taskforce’s work into homelessness recognises that people’s needs change over time and have suggested that a range of mechanisms to meet housing need is both necessary and appropriate. I am particularly pleased that this important work will be advanced by a local Minister.

“I can tell you that 1,625 homes were completed by Associations in the year. More needs to be done”

“The evidence contained in Sir John’s Report provides an excellent foundation on which future housing and planning policy can be developed.

“I hope that, when a local Minister assumes responsibility for these issues, this valuable work will help inform the development of policy. The challenge for the new Northern Ireland Executive will be to bring in changes that will extend housing choice for everyone.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The Review into Affordable Housing was launched by Minister for Social Development, David Hanson MP on 5th September 2006.
2. The Housing Executive in partnership with the School of Built Environment at the University of Ulster and the Centre for Urban Studies at University of Glasgow conducted research into the operation of the housing market in Northern Ireland. Advice NI, in partnership with Belfast Interface Project, Rural Community Network, Housing Rights Service, Northern Ireland Anti Poverty Network and the Organisation for the Unemployed NI, carried out qualitative research to gain personal perspectives and a deeper understanding of issues such as housing inequality, people’s ability to access appropriate housing, the impact of segregated housing, housing indebtedness and impact of income levels, class and joblessness on people’s housing aspirations.
3. More information can be found at the housing-affordability website.
4. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 90829497.