Recent statistical data from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government shows that only 1,040 applicants were successfully placed in affordable accommodation from Poole and Bournemouth Councils in the 12 months leading up to March 2017.
There are currently 950 and 3,511 applicants on the housing waiting list in Poole and Bournemouth Councils, respectively. These numbers have been steadily rising, with data in 2013 indicating 523 applicants for Poole and 891 in Bournemouth.
However, despite the urgent need for affordable homes, no new affordable homes were completed in Bournemouth and just 60 in Poole in the 12 months to March 2017.
In response to the figures, Borough of Poole’s Cabinet member for Housing, Councillor Karen Rampton, has reiterated the Council’s commitment to delivering more affordable housing in Poole.
With the dire need for housing in Dorset, proposals such as Canford Park, which are supported by the emerging Planning Policy, will be essential in helping to tackle the growing need for new affordable and market family homes.
Canford Park would deliver in the region of 800 new homes with approximately 40% provided as affordable homes or homes specifically for first-time buyers – something rarely achieved within the existing urban area. The development of the site would also provide a significant biodiversity benefit and green asset through a 44-hectare Country Park comprising beautiful parkland, with public access to the River Stour, which can be enjoyed by everyone.