Almost everywhere in Britain rents are rising, which has become an acute problem, not just in the South East but the South West as well, especially for those who do not own their house, would like to rent or buy, but have to pay back huge mortgages.
House building has stalled, even with the Government stepping in to boost the market. What we have seen is not the expansion of social housing, but an expansion in the private rented sector since the Tory led Government came into power.
Cllr Mick Lerry said: “For residents renting Crown Estate properties in the Bridgwater and West Somerset Constituency, they have now been given a limited time to find alternative accommodation, in order for the Crown Estate to sell off their assets to the private rented sector, or the second home market. The Crown Estate will increase the demand on affordable and social homes, at a time when there is very little availability, which is a disgrace”.
‘Yes to Homes”
The National Housing Federation has outlined the crisis in the South West where rural areas face profound issues regarding the availability and affordability of homes. The average wage in the South West is 20K and while wages have remained stagnant, house prices have risen by 55%. As Rural Councils say no to homes this will impact on those seeking to live in their local area. The crisis in rural areas has been made worse by the rise of second homes, fuel poverty and an aging population.
Cllr Mick Lerry said he: “ supported the “Yes to Homes” campaign where they are needed and that with stagnant wages more and more people need help with their housing costs, that’s why Labour will build 200K homes a year and repeal the bedroom tax”.
“Labour understands that people cannot choose to go without a home, and we do not want to see people homeless or being exploited, because they need accommodation. Homes for people bring wider benefits, such as health and education. People should be decently housed and Government has a duty to ensure that this happens”, said Mick.
Sign the Yes To Homes petition here.
Cllr Mick Lerry – Leader of the Labour Group on Sedgemoor District Council
Labour Parliamentary Candidate for Bridgwater and West Somerset
Mobile: 07775 905080
Email: michael.lerry@btinternet.com