Affordable properties so crucial – report
Making sure Sunderland has enough affordable homes to meet demand is a key proposal in the draft.
The report says: “There continues to be an increasing demand for affordable housing units particularly with the current economic situation and the impact of welfare reform. The SHMA identifies an imbalance of 615 affordable units per annum.
“Planning policy requires 10% affordable housing from all residential developments of 15 units or more, through Section 106s. Based on annual housing requirements this is Iikely to secure approximately 70-80 affordable units per annum. Additionally, the affordable housing sector is currently experiencing a period of rapid change as a consequence of the recession, development viability and a number of recent changes in government policy.
“This has created a climate of uncertainty and heightened risk, and, consequently, less affordable housing is being delivered by Registered Providers and/or through S106s. The council and its partners will have to be creative and flexible in securing the levels of affordable housing that the city needs for the future and consider many forms of affordable housing within the context of emerging Government policy, including affordable home ownership.”
Other key data in the report reveals there are 5,792 students living in Sunderland, including 3,136 living in the private rented sector.
Sunderland also had 2,756 properties – both private and social – stood empty for over six months.
In Sunderland, the private rented sector accounts for 12% ofhousing,andthereportadds: “The private rented properties withinSunderlandarepresently at the lower priced end of the market or aimed at students. Moreover, rents are reducing due to welfare reform and increased competition in the student sector.
“There is a gap in the market for good quality privately rented accommodation for professionals and working families and those attracted to Sunderland by employment opportunities.
“There is an opportunity for private renting to play a major role in underpinning the growth of employment, for example the jobs to be created by the International Advanced Manufacturing Park.”