6,300 waiting for a home

Date published: 02 February 2012

OPPOSITION MPs have warned of “the worst housing crisis in a generation” after it was revealed that more than 6,000 people are waiting for social housing in Oldham.

Figures released yesterday by the National Housing Federation showed that 6,345 people in the borough are languishing on the waiting list.

But despite the high numbers only 30 affordable homes were built across Oldham last year. It means 211 people are chasing every affordable property.

The average house price in Oldham is more than £128,000, the figures show, almost seven times the typical wage of £19,391.

The Government believes its New Homes Bonus will lead to more affordable houses being built than under Labour. The bonus rewards councils for the number of new-builds added in the course of a year. In 2012-13 Oldham will receive £294,180.

The figures come as the Government last night won a vote which will see more than 3,700 people in social or housing association properties in Oldham who are deemed to be under-occupying their property, having to find extra cash to pay their rent or move.

The Lords wanted an exemption for social tenants with one spare room from “under-occupancy” penalties but government are adamant they will push on with the changes.

Grandparents who share the care of their grandchildren, families with two same-sex teenagers with their own bedrooms, disabled tenants who need an adapted room to live a dignified, independent life will be some of those hit.