The waiting list for affordable accommodation has increased in recent years as more and more people
are unable to afford properties on the open market, due to increasing house prices and falling incomes. The current
climate means that many people are struggling to find an affordable property.
The number of affordable rented council properties has
reduced considerably since the introduction of the government’s ‘Right to Buy’ scheme. This has
resulted in demand outstripping supply.
9% of the housing stock in Sway is owned by New Forest District Council or a Housing Association.
This is low in comparison to the average for England where 18% of the housing stock is rented from the council or
a housing association.
Sway Parish Council recognises that there is a need for affordable accommodation in Sway
for local people on low and modest incomes. Following discussions with the Parish Council in August 2013, it was agreed
that the Rural Housing Enabler at Community Action Hampshire would carry out a housing need survey of the parish.
The aim was to determine whether or not there is a need for affordable housing for local people and smaller accommodation
for residents who wish to downsize. The housing need survey was carried out in November 2013 for three weeks before
the questionnaire return date.
Though most households
are satisfied with their housing situation, the housing need survey identified a demonstrable unmet housing need
from local people for affordable homes and smaller homes for downsizers.
Homesearch (join the waiting list) www.newforest.gov.uk/homesearch
If you or someone you know is in need of affordable rented housing
in Sway it is important that you/they register on Homesearch. It is in your/their interest to register as soon as possible.
You can apply online through the link above. New Forest District Council (02380 285000) and Housing Services (02380 285234)
can assist with your/their application.
Please also register on Homes in Hants if you/they are interested
and eligible for Shared Ownership accommodation: https://www.homesinhants.co.uk/