Housing experts heralded a new era of radical measures to tackle low demand - but highlighted a lack of resources as a stumbling block to bringing in the report's recommendations
"This is a very thorough analysis of a complex problem. What is needed now is for the Green Paper to pick up the recommendations on a more radical approach to social housing." National Housing Federation director of policy Liz Potter.

"There are some good things, but the issues are: clearance - there is almost a presumption against demolition - and the financial assistance for areas in real crisis." Centre of Urban and Regional Studies academic and low demand expert Brendan Nevin.

"It may seem odd for Shelter to endorse a report that more housing can make the problem worse, but that is the evidence." Team member and Shelter director Chris Holmes.

"As housing professionals we need to recognise that changing patterns of demand for housing are unlikely to be a short-term phenomenon. It means giving our customers as much choice as possible over their housing options, even where demand for housing is strong." Chartered Institute of Housing chief executive David Butler, a member of the unpopular housing policy action team.

"It is crucial that local authorities get management right on the ground, but it's also equally important that the regional and subregional strategies involving regional development agencies, assemblies and the Housing Corporation are relevant; and that there needs to be recognition that many of these areas need significant investment in regeneration." Local Government Association head of housing group Paul Lautman.

Source

Housing Today