Transcript Slide 1
Localism – Opportunities for Housing Associations Kate Dodsworth, Assistant Director - Regions, National Housing Federation Overview • Background – the Localism Bill • The draft National Planning Policy Framework • Localism and Communities • The role of housing associations • Making it work The Localism Bill • Part of a wider philosophy.... “The time has come to disperse power more widely in Britain today.” A quick re-cap on the Bill • New freedoms and flexibility for local government • New rights and powers for communities • Reform of the planning system • Abolition of regional strategies • Neighbourhood planning • Local decisions about social housing • Reform of social housing regulation Draft NPPF • Draft NPPF published in Summer • 1,300 pages of planning policy replaced by 50 pages • “the purpose of planning is to achieve sustainable development” Draft NPPF • Battle lines drawn over sustainable development? • ‘Planning reforms boost local power and growth’ Financial Times, 4 September 2011 • ‘Must England’s beauty perish, Mr Cameron?’ The Telegraph, 8 September 2011 Some Home Truths....... • average home in Kent cost £218,462 • 10 times the average individual income of £21,923 • gross annual income needed to secure a mortgage in Kent - £56,176. Localism and Communities • Neighbourhood plans - Who gets to participate? - Housing associations will play an important role - Could really transform communities for the better The role of housing associations • 2008 – 7,000 housing association – led projects supporting people in their communities • “The best housing associations have been embodiments of localism for many years” Greg Clark, Decentralisation Minister Working with communities...... Orbit South – East Kent Residents Forum Making it work • Partnerships • Housing associations need to be engaged from the start • Evidence is crucial • Housing associations can play a part in quantifying local need • Involve the whole community Thank you! [email protected] South East Lead Manager [email protected]