Stunell Slams Plans to Cut Funding to Housing in the North West

11.36.05am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 29th Mar 2005

Andrew Stunell MP has condemned Government plans to cut money for housing in the North West and switch spending to the South.

Mr Stunell said:

"Stockport has over 6,000 families on its waiting list, and many are desperate for rented housing now that high prices have put buying out of sight.

"The new Government proposals are unacceptable. They would shift housing resources from the North West towards the South, and lengthen the waiting list for Stockport residents.

"The Government is proposing to allocate money without taking into account the quality of private housing in the area, and how many elderly and disabled people need specialised accommodation - this will leave the North West worse off.

"We need more money for good quality and affordable housing in the North West, not less."

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1) Details of the proposed formula for the allocation of money for housing can be found in the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister consultation paper, 'Housing Investments in the Regions': http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent/groups/odpm_housing/documents/page/odpm_house_033291.hcsp

2) More details can be found from the North West Housing Forum, contacted at:

North West Housing Forum

English Gate Plaza

Botchergate

Carlisle, Cumbria

CA1 1RP

Email: NWHF@carlisleha.org.uk ; Tel: 01228 882831