Most of us know someone who is finding it hard to find affordable housing. They may need somewhere to rent; or they may be looking to get their foot on the housing ladder. 

We all know the only real answer is to build more affordable homes. And the Labour Government has announced that 3 million new homes will be required in England by 2020.  This is good news, but we also need to make sure we get the right homes in the right places. 

We need more, affordable homes if our children are not going to have to move away to find a place to live.  But it’s important that there is a balance between family homes and small flats.  Communities should contain a mix of homes and older houses should not be demolished just so a property developer can make a quick profit by replacing them with a block of small flats.  New developments should contain a high proportion of affordable homes. 

I believe that Southampton City Council needs to develop policies to preserve balanced communities while allowing the provision of more affordable housing.   I’d like to know what you think.