Affordable still well out of reach

In his letter in last week’s Gazette, Andrew Wintersgill confuses “affordable” housing with social housing.

It is true that 30% of houses planned for the Mountfield park development are designated as “affordable”.

What this means is that they will be sold for 80% of the market value.

In the local housing market they will still be well out of reach of those who most need housing. Social housing, however, offers homes at genuinely affordable rents.

The promoters of Mountfield Park glossed over this distinction in their original proposals. They had a section entitled “Social housing” which simply talked about “affordable” housing. I cannot believe Mr Wintersgill, who makes his living in this area, is unaware of this vital distinction, and is just trying to confuse matters.

Given the state of Canterbury’s property market, “affordable” is bestdescribed as “a bit less unaffordable”.

The Mountfield park proposals will not address the genuine housing needs of people living in this district.

The editor welcomes letters on any topical subject, but reserves the right to edit them. Letters must include your name and address even when emailed and a daytime telephone number. Write to Room B119 Canterbury College, New Dover Road, Canterbury CT1 3AJ fax 01227 762415, email kentishgazette@thekmgroup.co.uk