Mixed Results For Affordable Housing Development in Dorset

Statistics published today by Homes England (https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/housing-statistics-1-april-2017-to-31-march- 2018) show a mixed picture for the delivery of affordable housing in Dorset over the last three years – says Goadsby Planning Director Peter Atfield. Including construction starts to March this year, a total of 1,316 affordable housing units have been developed in the county. However, year on year construction rates are very variable, highlighting the planning and funding issues associated with this sector of the housing market. 

Leading the way is West Dorset Council, followed by North Dorset and Weymouth. Mr. Atfield states: 

“This appears to demonstrate that the development of low cost affordable housing is more achievable in rural areas that have the ability to plan for larger scale green field sites. The urban areas are relatively constrained by relying on small or brownfield land. These either fall below the 10 unit affordable housing threshold cap, or are occupied by existing commercial uses where development viability arguments result in lower levels of affordable provision.” 

The more detailed statistics include an analysis of affordable rent and affordable home ownership, with the bias very much towards rented dwellings.      

For further information contact Peter Atfield B.Tp MRTPI MTCPA on 01202 550100  or e-mail: peter.atfield@goadsby.com