As of March 2023, data reveals that over 63,000 affordable homes were delivered across the UK, marking the highest annual achievement since 2014-15. While this progress is notable, experts argue it remains insufficient, urging a more ambitious housing construction agenda.
According to data from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), in Oxford, 397 affordable homes were completed in the fiscal year 2022-23, a significant rise from 243 the previous year. These residences include social and affordable rentals, shared ownership, and first homes. However, despite this growth, the number of social rental properties has seen a sharp decline in the past decade, with affordable rent housing becoming the predominant type of new supply.
Social rental properties are designed for low-income households, offering rent at approximately 50% of average market rates. Affordable homes, meanwhile, cater to similar demographics but allow for rents up to 80% of market prices.
Luke Murphy, associate director of the Institute for Public Policy Research, welcomed the increase in affordable housing but expressed concern about the historically low supply of genuinely affordable homes, particularly social rent properties. Mr. Murphy stressed the critical need for a robust housing strategy, citing the ongoing housing crisis affecting many across England with high rents, unstable housing conditions, and poor-quality accommodations.
During the reporting period in Oxford, 17 affordable rent homes and 162 shared ownership properties were delivered. Nationally, the commencements of 71,000 affordable homes were recorded in 2022-23, with only 96 of those in Oxford.
Polly Neate, CEO of Shelter, criticized the government’s efforts, highlighting an insufficient response to the housing crisis. She pointed to the severe shortfall in social housing construction, stating that “decades of inadequate action” are evidenced daily in frontline social services. Ms. Neate called for political parties to commit to building new, safe, and affordable social homes linked to local income levels to alleviate housing pressures.
The DLUHC responded to these concerns, highlighting their investment in affordable housing. A spokesperson reported that since 2010, over 684,800 affordable homes have been delivered, including more than 171,100 for social rent. The government’s £11.5 billion Affordable Homes Programme is aimed at delivering thousands of affordable properties for rent and purchase nationwide.
If you’re interested in supporting local housing initiatives or businesses involved in related services, explore our House Maintenance and Estate Agents sections. For community engagement, consider participating in local clubs and societies or submitting an event here.
