Feb 27 - GSD Welcomes Affordable Housing But Calls On Government To Explain Its Wider Housing Policy
The Opposition says that it welcomes the building of affordable housing. The GSD adds that it has always promoted the building of affordable homes and the construction of good quality homes for Government rental, especially for those members of our community with real housing needs who find it impossible to buy on the local housing market.
The Opposition notes the comments of the Chief Minister on the announcement of the new developments that allocation of homes will not be driven by how much someone is able to afford but by their position on the Housing List. There are over 2,100 people on the housing waiting lists. At the moment, according to the GSD, the Government appear to have no intention to build homes for rental other than for the elderly. The Opposition says it has serious doubts whether everyone on the housing waiting lists will be able to afford to buy.
The GSD calls on the Government to explain how it intends to meet its Manifesto Commitment to eliminate the waiting list and the pre-list before the next general election.
The GSD argues that it is committed to radically addressing the age old problem with housing and waiting lists and is determined to offer the electorate a “constructive alternative” come the next election. The GSD is firmly committed to promoting a housing policy which will meet the future housing needs of our community.
Elliott Phillips, non-Parliamentary spokesman said: "We welcome the announcement inviting members of our community to apply for allocation of affordable housing. However, the announcement has created a significant level of uncertainty as to how the Government intends to deal with (1) 2,100 people of the housing list and pre list, (2) social and medical lists and (3) those who have been living across the border wishing to return home. Undoubtedly the level of interest in the new housing project is high and it is very possible that demand is likely to outstrip supply.
“The Government needs to be clear about how it intends to eliminate the housing lists and pre-list from the available 900 apartments. The approach to housing should not be reactive it should be an evolving strategy based on a sound analysis and audit of the housing requirements of our community as a whole.”
