Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Community Housing

12 March 2020 · 3 other contributors

Opened by Richard Bacon Con South Norfolk

Housing

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Richard Bacon raised concerns about community housing in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Richard Bacon highlighted the support for community housing as outlined in the Conservative manifesto, focusing on local communities having more say over housing developments and promoting self-build housing.
  • The MP discussed the Help to Buy scheme's exclusion of custom and self-build, which negatively impacted these sectors.
  • The Minister acknowledged the importance of community-led housing and its potential to provide affordable homes, emphasizing initiatives like the Community Housing Fund and the role of community land trusts.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Richard Bacon Con South Norfolk

Richard Bacon highlighted the support for community housing as outlined in the Conservative manifesto. He emphasised two key areas: giving local communities more say over housing developments and promoting self-build housing. The MP discussed the Help to Buy scheme's exclusion of custom and self-build, which has negatively impacted these sectors. However, he expressed optimism about future solutions from the government. Bacon focused on community housing, praising initiatives like neighbourhood plans and the Community Land Trust model. He stressed the importance of involving communities in development projects for better value and public acceptance. The MP also mentioned the success of the community housing fund, highlighting its growth since 2018 and underscoring the need for a longer-term funding commitment. Bacon concluded by emphasising the potential benefits of community-led housing and the necessity to foster innovation and quality.

Other contributors (3)
  • John Howell Con Henley

    Asked about problems with implementing the Community Land Trust model in his constituency.

  • Richard Bacon Con South Norfolk

    Suggested speaking to experts at the National Community Land Trust Network for solutions and advocated for relaunching the community housing fund.

  • Danny Kruger Con Harrow West

    Agreed with Bacon's sentiments, noting disappointment that the community housing fund was not extended in the latest Budget.

Government Response

Christopher Pincher

The Minister acknowledged the importance of community-led housing and its potential to provide affordable homes. He highlighted Government initiatives such as the Community Housing Fund, which has seen significant growth since its launch in 2018. The response also emphasised the role of community land trusts, housing co-operatives, and other local organisations in delivering quality housing across England. Pincher noted that funding constraints limit immediate extensions but expressed sympathy for Bacon's points and promised to have further discussions with relevant departments as they approach the comprehensive spending review.

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