Plea to planners over housing policy
Plea to planners over housing policy
PLANNING authorities should take a more pragmatic outlook towards a policy that allows the construction of affordable housing in the countryside, says the Country Land and Business Association.
The organisations regional surveyor in the West Midlands, Andrew Shirley, said: "With house prices soaring it has become increasingly difficult for many people to live in our villages which is not good for the long-term health of such communities."
But, he noted, there is an "exceptional site" policy which permits development which would not usually be allowed when a need can be proven.
Mr Shirley is hoping more landowners with potential sites on the outskirts of villages will consider providing plots for new low-cost accommodation. *