Critical Housing Policy Data Is 'Limited'

Thursday, 27 October 2022 17:40

The Minister for Housing and Communities tells a Scrutiny Panel there are gaps in evidence over supply and demand.

Deputy David Warr admitted that there are critical data gaps, but they will be addressed, and he has plans to work alongside stakeholders for better collection of data going forward.

When asked about the £10m investment scheme that's designed to increase home ownership he told the Panel it's been difficult to spend, but he confirmed that he is trying to find a long-term benefit for the money.

The scheme that will recieve the funding has not been decided on yet.

Scrutiny Panel Chair, deputy Steve Luce, says they'd need more certainty on that:

"The meeting brings to our attention the lack of clarity the deputy has around the timescales around the £10m investment scheme and we would require further details on when in 2023 this will be."

When asked if he thought house prices will drop, by the Scrutiny Chair, Warr replied, "yes, absolutely."

The deputy confirmed that existing mortgage holders looking to renew are, on average, spending between £1000 to £2000 more a month, and 300 islanders are in this position.

On the topic of using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) the minister says he is confident it will bring prefab homes to the market quicker but there are limitations.

He claimed there are no guarantees that using MMC will be quicker and cheaper.