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The Welsh Deputy Minister for Housing, Jocelyn Davies, has welcomed the findings of a report which proposes the Assembly Government leads a 'programme of change' in order to address the shortage of affordable housing in Wales.
The Essex Report is the work of an independent review of affordable housing which was commissioned by the Deputy Minister in October 2007.
Its aim was to explore possible mechanisms for delivering one of the Government’s main priorities - the 'One Wales' commitment of creating 6,500 affordable homes in Wales by 2011.
The current housing crisis has put the spotlight on the problem and has created the political will to recognise the 'foot will need to be heavy on the pedal for sometime' to create a good and well-distributed stock of affordable housing in Wales.
The Review Group has set out a comprehensive package of recommendations that give a clear foundation and direction for everyone involved in delivering the aspirations and targets in the 'One Wales' document.
It sets out the requirements for change under the strategic leadership of the Assembly Government and working with local authorities, housing associations and others to ensure delivery.
The group met or received from over 70 organisations or individuals. Over 100 people also contributed through workshops or conferences.
Welcoming the findings of the report, Jocelyn Davies, said: "Creating affordable housing is central to this Government's aim of ensuring strong, sustainable communities throughout our nation. I'm grateful to Sue Essex and her team for producing this thorough report and I will consider the recommendations carefully as I map out what more needs to be done to meet the commitment in One Wales."
The Head of the Review Group, Sue Essex, also commented: "This is a critical time for housing in Wales and we met with considerable enthusiasm within the housing sector in Wales for delivery through this change agenda to deliver for people in housing need.
"It is not just a matter of numbers, but making sure new housing is of the right type and quality standard, and is in the right place to meet local need and support local communities."
(JM)
