Last month we asked housing professionals to tell us what they hoped to see in the Communities Plan. Did it deliver?
Lisa Griffin – neighbourhood officer, Notting Hill Housing
I wanted an emphasis on urban spaces because disused land affects quality of life, so I think the land restoration trust is a great idea. But my hopes for a wider definition of "key worker" hasn't been met. When will the government recognise need goes beyond traditional key workers?

Eric Bowen – director of housing and environmental services, Leeds council
We looked for a strengthening of ALMOs, so we welcome the increased funding. The plan mentions changes to the PFI subsidy system and I wanted PFI to be more viable. It's good to see support for market renewal, but we wanted recognition for non-pathfinder areas such as West Yorkshire. Also, we hoped the plan would be a cross-departmental document but it is very much an ODPM one.

Rebecca Pritchard – director of services, Centrepoint
I'd said the key is more affordable housing for single people, so we welcome more affordable homes but we're anxious for a balance between units for single households and larger family homes. I wanted to see something about education and employment so while the focus on jobs as well as housing is essential, we'd like tailored training and employment support to help marginalised young people into the workforce. Initiatives to improve the availability, quality and accessibility of the private rented sector are to be applauded – I wanted that sector to be seen as a source of affordable housing.

Source

Housing Today