Housing

There is a housing shortage in the UK. We need more homes for families.

In delivering a solution to the housing shortage, we must consider the human impact – such as the impact on existing communities. At the same time, we must be mindful of our environmental impact.

We aim to find a balance and provide truly affordable sustainable homes.

We believe that there are four key aspects to any proposed new housing:

1) Where new homes are built
2) What new homes are built
3) How new homes are built
4) How new homes are supported

Where new homes are built

It is important to ensure that these are built in the right places. This means first identifying where there is a need and then identifying space within proximity of that need to build.

Where space is identified, this should be primarily be brownfield sites – promoting regeneration of land fallen into disuse. Developers should not disregard brownfield sites on the basis of cost alone.

The space should have existing infrastructure to support the house building programme.

The local planning authority should challenge developers on any proposed use of greenfield sites. In all cases, where greenfield sites are approved, developers have a duty to protect ecosystems. This includes existing wildlife and habitats.

What new homes are built

There is a need for genuine affordable housing. New builds should take into account the affordability of homes for the area in which they are built.

In addition to affordable homes, there is a need for social housing – affordable rented homes available to those who cannot afford to buy a property.

All new homes should be designed to ensure the happiness and wellbeing of residents.

Where developers will not bid for building new social housing, the local authority should consider investing in building to meet the need as arises in that area.

How new homes are built

New Homes should meet future homes standards.

This means that homes should be well insulated and be energy efficient. Heating sources should be sustainable.

In addition, in the building process, developers should take steps to ensure the project is carbon neutral. This includes both building materials and building equipment.

How new homes are supported

All houses should become homes.

This means providing access to schools, doctors, shops and infrastructure.

Developments should be established as communities – with the means for people to come together.

Housing Campaigns

Murton Gap

We have worked with the Murton Action Group in their campaign regarding the development at Murton Gap.

We raised concerns on the number of new homes to be built and the impact on the exisiting community and the environment.

Butterfly Conservation identifies that the Small Tortoiseshell is thriving at Murton Gap; despite numbers falling by 79% across the country.

Following our input, we received assurances from the Planning Officer regarding provision of green space and the protection of habitat for wildlife.

Killingworth Moor

The proposed development at Killingworth Moor faces similar concerns as Murton Gap.

This is an area of green space used by local communities.

In addition, there are concerns regarding the destruction of habitat for wildlife.

The Local Action Group can be found here:
Stop Killing Killingworth [Facebook Group]

Backworth

We worked with residents of Castle Park in Backworth on their campaign to save green space which was marked for new housing.

The Council granted planning permission, but residents expressed concerns about breaches of the planning conditions. We worked with residents to review the conditions and ensure that the builders meet their obligations.

Green Viewpoint:
“We are disappointed that North Tyneside Council has granted planning permission on this green space – which was used by local children to play football and attracted nature to the trees and hedges.”

Holywell Dene

Although this is outside of the area marked for development on the Local Plan, there are concerns from some residents that this will be marked on the next revision of the plan.

The ever expanding area of new housing development – and the loss of green space and space for nature – is a concern to many.

We will work to protect our green space.

Back