The Interim Director of Corporate Services provided an overview of the differing levels of housing affordability within Wirral, which impacted upon local peoples’ ability to access appropriate housing. The provision of new and affordable homes was a key priority within the Council’s Corporate Plan and delivering affordable homes in Wirral was one of the key themes within the Housing Strategy 2011-2026. He outlined the Government’s housing policy and commented that, for Wirral, affordability was not just limited to the more affluent areas but was just as much prevalent in a wide range of neighbourhoods in the eastern side of the Borough, where resources were being focused to restructure housing markets.

He indicated that Wirral was committed to finding solutions to help address the difficulties faced by many households in accessing affordable housing. He outlined the activities being undertaken by the Housing Division and set out also work being undertaken with local partners to maximise the opportunities to benefit local people.

In response to a question from a Member with regard to a Notice of Motion agreed by the Council in relation to affordability, the Interim Director proposed to liaise with the Director of Finance in order to bring forward a potential report on Council Mortgages to a future meeting.

Resolved –

(1)  That the content of the report highlighting information on local house prices, house sales, and average incomes and the impact this has on affordability issues in Wirral, be noted.

(2)  That a further report on help available for first time mortgages be added to the Committees Work Programme.

(3)  That the report of the Interim Director of Corporate Services be referred to the Planning Committee for information.