A strategy for delivering the new homes, jobs and infrastructure the South East needs until 2026 was announced by Communities Minister Sadiq Khan today.

The South East Plan sets out a framework for sustainable growth that will support long-term economic performance in the region by encouraging the provision of new job opportunities and meeting the region's housing needs.

The Plan deals with the key issues of tackling climate change, including flood risks, and protecting the region's natural and historic environment. It also sets out the region's transport strategy and an overall framework for implementation.

Increasing the supply of housing provision remains absolutely critical despite the current difficulties in the housing market and challenging economic outlook. The Plan sets out to deliver 654,000 new homes until 2026 to meet the region's long-term housing needs.

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The South East population is continuing to grow more quickly than the national average with people living longer and increasingly choosing to live alone. The latest statistics show the number of households in the region is projected to grow by some 39,000 each year over the next 25 years.

The gap between average house prices and average wages in the region has also widened and there are some 200,000 households in the region registered for social housing. The Plan sets out a target that 35 per cent of the new housing provision must be affordable.

The Plan focuses growth in the South East's regional hubs, including five strategic development areas in an arc from South Hampshire through Oxford to Milton Keynes.

Plans for a high-quality transport system that will act as a catalyst for economic growth are set out in the Plan. The transport strategy aims to re-balance the system in favour of sustainable modes, such as public transport, walking and cycling, to improve the quality of life for all local residents. Total public expenditure on transport in the South East has increased over the last five years by 18 per cent, from £1.9 bn in 2002/03 to £2.3 bn in 2007/08.

Mr Khan said: "The South East needs a long term strategy to strengthen the economy, address housing shortages and tackle the threat of climate change.

"The number of households in the South East is growing rapidly with housing supply lagging behind and housing affordability worsening. Despite the current difficulties in the market we need to keep up with the rise in demand and provide more homes.

"The South East Plan sets out an achievable long term vision for the area that promotes growth while protecting the countryside and the environment."

(CD/JM)