Bates calls for more support to assist affordable housing crisis

Release/Rhyddhau: 01/02/07

Contact/Cyswllt: Mick Bates
029 2089 8342/ 01686 625527/ mick.bates@wales.gov.uk 

Montgomeryshire AM, Mick Bates, has called on the Labour Assembly Government to support Community Land Trusts, like those already established in Ceinws near Machynlleth and Castle Caereinion, by helping them through the legal obstacles to acquire government land on which to build affordable housing.

Speaking at the National Assembly earlier today, Mick said:

“Community Land Trusts developed by ‘Land for the People’ based in Welshpool can play an important role in providing affordable housing for local people.

“Affordable housing in Mid Wales has hit crisis point. House prices have risen by more than 157% in the last 6 years. At the same time average household earnings have remained at just £23,000. It has become difficult for many people to find affordable rented property or buy starter homes.

“If we are serious about providing both affordable and sustainable housing in Montgomeryshire the Labour Assembly Government must work closely with the construction industry to support the building of houses that have low running costs and do not leak energy.

“We must explore the option of using Community Land Trusts to achieve this aim. The future of rural Wales relies on young people being able to afford homes in the communities they grew up in. Without young people in our communities the school, the post office, the pub, the community hospital and the language are all under threat. We must look at all avenues to make the dream of an affordable home a reality.”