Development Control - and the housing waiting list

Tuesday - Development Control Committee meeting 10 to 2.30 today - shorter than some meetings and several controversial applications including a development at Rooksmoor (Woodchester) and a mobile phone mast outside Wicliffe school - both got passed.

After that meeting I had an interesting discussion following up someone on the housing waiting list. This is not to get them pushed up the list but to see that all that is being done is being done. It was - but it was also another illustration of what a terrible state we have come to in terms of housing. I wont go into details but this person had a considerable number of 'points' compared to most yet they were still way off getting a flat - indeed on current rates they would never get a flat - the housing list grows yet the number of homes available is shrinking.

I went along afterwards to talk to the individual in person - they've been on the waiting list over 2 years already so are under no illusions - basically they could broaden where they are looking for a home to include Gloucester and Dursley - but even moving away from family and friends like that would not increase chances lots - the only other option is private rented - and of course you often need a deposit of £1000 or so - none of this is easy.

The problem of course stems from Labour and Tory policy of selling off Council housing and not supporting rebuilding lots more. However I will be exploring where there is room for more action locally.