Senator calls for housing supply commissioner

Senator calls for housing supply commissioner

Former assistant chief minister Philip Ozouf has proposed changes to draft social housing regulations, which were lodged by Housing Minister Anne Pryke last month, with the aim of putting a greater emphasis on the supply of housing in the Island.

While the Senator says he has full support for the Housing Minister’s proposals, he has suggested the following amendments:

*Adding the assessment and prioritisation of housing supply to the remit of the affordable housing gateway team

*The establishment of a specialist housing supply commissioner

The report accompanying Senator Ozouf’s proposals says that upon review of the regulations that a ‘greater focus’ on housing supply is needed.

It says: ‘Many Islanders are concerned by the lack of affordable housing in Jersey that is forcing residents to pay excessive mortgages or rents for sub-standard living standards.

‘The minister’s report deals with the important issue of standards. However, standards are going to be extremely difficult to be raised or enforced without the appropriate supply.

‘Comments such as: “To get anything half-decent is astronomical” are all too often heard from many hardworking Islanders from all walks of life.’

It also says that the difficulties Islanders have had in finding affordable housing have added to ‘the scepticism and lack of trust in the States and its ability to deliver what Islanders need’.

The report adds: ‘Housing supply is insufficient and prices have already risen, and some are concerned that with the economic resurgence clearly underway, there is the beginning of what could be a perfect storm of a lack of supply and much-needed housing in the next couple of years.

‘Members need to be alert to this serious issue, and while regulation is welcome, as is an appropriate and balanced application of the Control of Housing and Work Law, a relentless focus on supply is needed.’

The proposition and amendment are due to be debated on 30 January.

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