David Cameron and Nick Clegg have announced that housing developments no longer need to include a certain number of council houses. They said that planning permission can now be given to developments and sustainable buildings that have no low-cost houses.

However, the plans have been immediately criticised by councils who complained that the money raised by state houses was vital in supporting local services.

Argument for much-needed affordable housing

Sir Merrick Cockell, Conservative chairman of the Local Government Association, told telegraph.co.uk:

“The perception that the councils are asking for unaffordable ‘nice to have’ add-ons through these requirements is wrong.”

“In addition to much-needed affordable housing, section 106 agreements also fund roads and even new schools to support developments.”

He further argued that there would be ‘no economic growth’ if social houses weren’t built for low-paid workers.

‘Very real housing needs’

Mr Cameron said the move was being made to get the planning system ‘off peoples’ backs’ and help revive the economy, with Mr Clegg adding that the government would help provide funds for other low-cost housing developments.

As well as the council, many others disagree with the plans, reports guardian.co.uk, with financial firm Tullet Prebon saying that Britain has ‘very real housing needs’, calling for £4 billion investment to fund low-cost housing programmes.

Author: Samantha Bartlett    Date Written: 11 November 2012