Rural Housing Inquiry

Overview

Our national inquiry into rural housing began in July 2005, in response to Government setting up the Affordable Rural Housing Commission. We wanted to make sure the views and concerns of rural people and businesses were heard and listened to by Government, as they considered ways to improve access to affordable rural housing.


Working with the independent research company Ipsos MORI, we visited eight case study areas across England. We asked people about the housing issues that concerned them, the effect housing problems were having locally, and, importantly, what actions people wanted to see to address their concerns. People throughout the country were also invited to send in written comments or to complete an on-line questionnaire.

What did you tell us?

Over 800 people shared their experiences with us, with several common themes emerging:
  • Overwhelming concern at the growing shortage of suitable affordable housing to buy or rent
  • Anxiety about the impact of rising numbers of second and holiday homes
  • Frustration at the lack of local involvement in decision making
  • Frustration with inflexible planning and housing policies that do not meet local needs
Above all, the one clear message was that rural communities want action, and action now, to address the affordability of rural housing, before it is too late.

What have we done with the Inquiry findings?

They were an important part of our evidence to the Government’s Affordable Rural Housing Commission. We've called on Government to give clear leadership to address the concerns people raised with us, and for a package of actions to achieve:
  1. More effective rural proofing of housing policies at all levels
  2. An increase in, and better targeting of, resources to meet rural needs for affordable homes
  3. More flexible planning policies which enable villages to grow and adapt to meet their changing economic and social circumstances.
  4. Empowered local communities who are involved in shaping their own solutions and have a real stake in their future

What next?

Rural housing remains a priority. We will continue to work with Government and others, and monitor and report on their actions, to make sure the necessary changes happen.

Watch our film 'Rural housing: A place in the countryside'