TCPA welcome strategy to ensure good quality housing is available to all » Housing » 24dash.com

Planning and housing experts have welcomed the news that, as part of its commitment to deliver three million new homes by 2020 and up to ten eco-towns, the Government has launched a National Strategy for Housing in an Ageing Society.

The strategy sets out the challenge that of the increase in the total number of households by 2026 older people will account for almost half (48 per cent)[1].

Town and Country Planning Association[2] (TCPA) Chief Executive Gideon Amos said: “To tackle the growth in households sustainably we must positively plan for housing that reflects the needs, aspirations and changing lifestyles of all of us.

"Through improved prosperity, healthcare and technology we are all living longer and planning has a vital role in ensuring that older people have access to good quality housing, helping them remain independent, comfortable, confident and secure in their homes. This important National Strategy highlights that housing in an ageing society is a priority for all of us. ”

Commissioned by the Department for Communities and Local Government (CLG) to carry out a study of the criteria for new eco-towns, the TCPA is providing practical advice to Housing Minister Caroline Flint and CLG, who are promoting the eco-towns initiative as part of the drive to create more affordable homes set in communities that are sustainable in environmental, social and economic terms.

Gideon Amos added: “Accessible and adaptable homes in thriving neighbourhoods will be fundamental to the fulfilling the social sustainability of eco-towns. For eco-towns to be exemplar they must include planning for socially desirable housing for older people, with care and support to match the communities changing needs and capabilities.”

The National Strategy for Housing in an Ageing Society will be discussed at the second seminar in the regional housing growth and eco-towns series taking place in Manchester tomorrow. The eco-town seminar roadshow is being run by the TCPA and CLG, in partnership with the Academy for Sustainable Communities (ASC). The programme aims to assist professionals working in delivery agencies, local authorities, development agencies and professional consultancies, as well as elected members and community groups, in the delivery of eco-towns and more widely in the delivery of truly sustainable housing growth.

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Contacts:

Kate Henderson, Communications Manager
Tel: 020 7930 8903/ 07915 057769
Email: kate.henderson@tcpa.org.uk

Notes to Editors
1. The National Strategy for Housing in an Ageing Society will be available for download from the Communities and Local Government website on the 25th February

2. The Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA) is an independent campaigning charity calling for more integrated planning based on the principles of accessibility, sustainability, diversity, and community cohesion. The TCPA puts social justice and the environment at the heart of the debate about planning policy, housing and energy supply. We inspire government, industry and campaigners to take a fresh perspective on major issues including climate change and regeneration. www.tcpa.org.uk

3. For further information about the TCPA/ CLG regional seminars on housing growth and eco-towns please download the brochure from http://www.tcpa.org.uk/conference_files/2008-NP-ETSeminar_BROCHURE.pdf