Housing need surveys

Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity (BRCC) is carrying out the surveys on behalf of Wrestlingworth and Cockayne Hatley Parish Council and Henlow Parish Council.

Questionnaires are currently being delivered in each village.

The purpose of a Housing Needs Survey is to try to identify the housing needs of each parish for the next 20 years.

The responses should give an idea of the number, size and type of homes that need to be provided.

Residents should consider their own need, that of family members and that of other people they know with a strong local connection. They may also mention the people who have moved away from the parish but would like to return.

An example of a future housing need might be where someone would like to remain living in the parish but their home is now too large and they would benefit from downsizing. They may need to live in a home where extra care is available. Alternatively they may have children living at home who would like to move out but wish to stay in the area and cannot afford to buy in the village.

Jon Boswell, deputy chief executive of BRCC said: “If a housing need is identified then it may be possible for the planning authority to allow small developments of affordable (usually rented or shared ownership) housing specifically to meet that local parish need.

“Planning conditions would be attached to any development to make sure that these homes remain affordable and for local people in the future.

“We would like to hear from as many people as possible with a strong local connection to the parish who may need help with housing.”

Anyone who needs a survey form or further information can contact Jon on 01234 834931 or at [email protected]. Questionnaires should be returned in the freepost envelope by Friday, May 31.