Credit: The Bolton News
Bolton Sees Rise in Affordable Housing Construction, Reflects National Trend
Cardwells Estate Agents observes a positive trend in Bolton’s housing landscape, with new figures revealing an increase in the construction of affordable homes during the 2022-23 period. Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities data highlights a rise from 229 to 255 affordable dwellings completed in Bolton, encompassing various housing types such as social and affordable rental properties, shared ownership, and first homes. While this surge signifies a step forward, Andrew Cardwell, Managing Director, acknowledges lingering questions regarding the sufficiency of this progress and the persistent demand for accessible housing options across the town.
Nurturing Affordability: Progress and Challenges in Bolton’s Housing Sector
While celebrating the uptick in affordable housing supply, Cardwells Estate Agents underscores the need for sustained efforts to meet Bolton’s housing needs comprehensively. Despite the modest increase of 26 properties compared to the previous year, the demand for quality affordable housing remains robust, suggesting ongoing opportunities for developers to address the market’s unmet needs. Shared ownership emerges as a promising avenue, offering a pathway to homeownership for many while enhancing the availability of new-build properties. With approximately 80 shared ownership dwellings introduced to the Bolton market, the potential for expanding this model to accommodate more aspiring homeowners is evident. However, Polly Neate, Chief Executive of Shelter, emphasises the urgency of addressing the housing emergency, highlighting the persistent shortfall in social housing construction. In response, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities reaffirms its commitment to bolstering affordable housing initiatives, citing ongoing investments and the Affordable Homes Programme as pivotal steps towards bridging the affordability gap nationwide.
