Credit: The Bolton News
Decline in New Social Housing Lettings: A Cause for Concern
Cardwells Estate Agents sheds light on the concerning trend of declining new social housing lettings in Bolton, with figures revealing a stark decrease of more than a third over the past decade. According to recent data from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, the number of new social housing lettings offered to tenants in Bolton stood at 1,835 in 2021-22, down from 1,878 the previous year. This downward trajectory in new lettings reflects a broader trend of decline witnessed over the last decade, with figures plummeting from 3,241 in 2011-12 to the current levels. Social housing encompasses both affordable or intermediate rent and social rent, with the latter offering significantly lower rates set by the Government. Andrew Cardwell, owner of Cardwells Estate Agents, expresses concern over the implications of these figures, stating, “These figures are very worrying. There is a genuine need for more social housing in our Bolton community.” He attributes this decline to the failure to build sufficient homes to meet demand, coupled with the dwindling number of local authority-owned social homes. Furthermore, Cardwell highlights the adverse effects of this decline, including increased pressure on private rental properties and rising rents. He underscores the urgent need for investment in a new generation of sustainable and quality social homes to address the growing housing crisis.
Evaluating the Impact on Bolton’s Housing Landscape: Insights from Cardwells Estate Agents
In response to the escalating issue, the Government has announced plans to invest approximately £11.5 billion in building tens of thousands more social homes through its Affordable Home Programme. While this initiative aims to alleviate housing shortages, its long-term impact remains to be seen. Nationally, the decline in affordable rental properties is evident, with the number of households provided with new social lettings plummeting from 396,000 in 2011-12 to 267,000 last year. Housing charity Shelter emphasises the urgent need for investment in social housing to address homelessness and housing insecurity across the country. In Bolton, efforts are underway to address the shortage of affordable homes, with initiatives such as the Moor Lane development led by Step Places and social housing provider Bolton at Home. This transformative project aims to create 208 new homes, along with green spaces and shops, to cater to the housing needs of residents in the town centre.
In conclusion, while the decline in new social housing lettings presents a formidable challenge, collaborative efforts and strategic investments are essential to address housing shortages and ensure access to affordable housing for all residents of Bolton and beyond.
