The targets I recently announced for all local authorities are out to 2017 and include the provision of almost 7,500 units that will be capital-funded. It is a matter for each local authority to identify the appropriate initiatives to respond to their housing need, including acquiring available properties, as well as building, leasing and the provision of housing supports through the private rental sector.
The targets for local authorities are fully in line with those in the Social Housing Strategy, which were developed having regard to the nature and scale of social housing need, as measured by the most recent statutory Housing Needs Assessment. A key reason for the variation in the impact on local housing lists lies in the variation in the levels of housing need locally. Certain areas have lower numbers on housing lists, consequently the targets set for such authorities have a relatively high percentage impact on the lists. Conversely, while other authorities had higher targets set for them, the impact is proportionally not as high given the number on the housing lists of those areas.
In overall terms, the targets I have announced are ambitious and challenging and will have a major impact on the housing lists in all areas and reflect the fact that addressing social housing need is accorded the highest priority by the Government.
