Improving the Delivery of Affordable Housing in the South-East

The study drew on extensive recent research and case studies in ten local authorities, and identified eight principal, inter-related groups of factors constraining the delivery of new and affordable housing in London and the South East. The importance of the various factors varies from situation to situation: planning policy frameworks; strategic planning and infrastructure issues; funding for affordable housing; local authority performance and resources; public opposition to development; the operation and behaviour of housebuilders; and professional and construction skills shortages. A broad range of action is needed, led by Government, but involving local authorities, housebuilders and registered social landlords, to improve the delivery of affordable housing. The report makes recommendations to ODPM and national and regional agencies on meaures that could improve the supply of affordable housing.