The issue of social integration and mixed tenure developments has been an important objective of housing policy for a number of years. The instruments used by the Department and local authorities in implementing this policy include the provision of infill local authority housing, voluntary housing and the direct provision of shared ownership housing. I also envisage the new affordable housing scheme will have an important role to play regarding mixed tenure housing developments.
The issue of how the planning code can facilitate the provision of a suitable mix of housing types and the provision of social and affordable housing is an issue being considered as part of my review of the planning code. My proposals in this regard will be contained in the major Bill to reform and consolidate planning law which I aim to publish in June.