North East Mayor Kim McGuinness Highlights Social Housing Crisis
Mayor Kim McGuinness warns that the North East’s housing shortage is worsening, with waiting lists rising rapidly and urgent action needed.
North East, Social Housing, Kim McGuinness, Waiting Lists, Affordable Homes, Government
Newcastle: The North East’s mayor, Kim McGuinness, is raising alarms. She says the region’s lack of social housing is holding families back. Waiting lists are growing faster here than anywhere else in the UK.
Experts warn that the council house waiting list in England could hit two million in ten years. Last year, the waiting list reached its highest level since 2014. Demand for affordable homes is far outpacing construction.
The North East is facing the biggest challenges. Local housing registers increased by 28% here and 20% in the North West from 2021 to 2024, according to property consultants JLL.
JLL reports that while demand for social housing is rising, not enough homes are being built. Last year, the waiting list grew by 43,000. If trends continue, it could exceed two million by 2034.
Mayor McGuinness stated that the lack of social housing is a major issue. She mentioned a £10.7 million scheme to build over 100 new homes in East Durham. Major projects are also approved in Newcastle and Sunderland, but more is needed.
She emphasized the urgency of starting new construction and exploring creative building opportunities. This includes supporting the Leamside Line Investment Corridor to create new communities.
McGuinness is collaborating with the Treasury and other officials to secure more investment and powers for local leaders. She aims to help families who have struggled to find housing for too long.
The Government called the situation “unacceptable” and promised urgent action. They plan to deliver 1.5 million homes and increase social and affordable housing significantly.
Marcus Dixon from JLL noted that the increase in the waiting list highlights the need for more affordable homes. Tracy Harrison from the Northern Housing Consortium said many low-income individuals are forced into the private rental market, where rents are high.
She pointed out that housing poverty is now a significant issue in the North, affecting many families. The Government’s commitment to building 1.5 million new homes must include social housing.
Since 2012, nearly 33,000 council houses in Northern England have been sold under the Right To Buy scheme, with only 5,000 new social homes built. Housing Secretary Angela Rayner plans to review this scheme to increase affordable housing.
Mairi MacRae from Shelter highlighted the impact of the housing shortage. She said homelessness is rising, and many families struggle to find stable homes.
MacRae stressed the need for investment in affordable social homes to end homelessness. A government spokesperson reiterated their commitment to building 1.5 million homes and increasing social housing.
They acknowledged the challenges local governments face and promised reforms to the Right to Buy scheme, along with additional funding for affordable housing.