posted on 14 July 2016, updated on 14 July 2016
A new report from CIPFA and the CIH looks at what could be done to allow local authorities to play their full role in supplying new homes.
The introduction of self-financing originally offered potential capacity for new build, but this has been reduced by subsequent policy changes, rent reductions, increased right to buy sales and the impact of welfare reform on rent collection.
The report makes a number of recommendations to central government, intended primarily to help local authorities to restore their investment plans to at least the levels available to them at the time of the settlement.
Stock-holding local authorities are recommended to urgently review their HRA business plans in light of the factors covered in the report, and to consider what offer could be made to government to improve housing supply in return for commitments that would provide more stable HRA business plans.
Related Links: