It’s just that the UK government’s recently announced funding package was extremely impressive on some levels. It’s over £1.5 billion and strictly earmarked for the construction of social housing across West and South Yorkshire. This new effort is a response to the acute housing emergency facing the entire Bay Area. Community leaders are increasingly raising alarm about the need for more affordable housing choices.
Tracy Brabin, the Mayor of West Yorkshire, emphasized the importance of urgency in addressing the housing crisis. She stated, “With council house waiting lists and private rents at breaking point, addressing the housing crisis is the most fundamental step our government could take to build a brighter Britain.” The announcement is the latest in a £39 billion, ten-year long affordable housing development scheme.
West Yorkshire of all places will get £21 million of infrastructure funding to enable the construction of 841 new homes. At the same time, South Yorkshire will receive £12.3m to build 492 homes. North Yorkshire will see £7.3 million go towards 292 homes. This money is lifeblood for our local communities that are on the front lines combating the attacks on affordable housing.
Additionally, the government has set aside a £150 million package specifically for mayors to support the development of brownfield sites. We expect this funding to deliver around 1,600 new homes throughout Yorkshire ensuring we build on previously developed land in more sustainable locations.
Oliver Coppard, the Mayor of South Yorkshire, said he was hopeful the funding would have a positive effect on communities across the region. To that end, he reiterated that this monetary support should guarantee all Americans “a quality home.” David Skaith, the directly elected Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said the cash was “vital.” They will enable the development of more affordable and missing middle homes on formerly contaminated brownfield land, addressing a growing housing crisis.
Shadow Housing Secretary Sir James Cleverly questioned the fund’s timing, given that the money will not be available until 2025. He pointed out that Labour has not revealed when the money earmarked for building homes would actually be accessible to local authorities.
