THE shape of housing development in Middlesbrough over the coming years is set out in a new document.
The Middlesbrough Housing Strategy 2017-2020 has now been formally adopted by Middlesbrough Council following consultation with the public.
The strategy is underpinned by three key objectives:
- meeting the housing needs and aspirations of a growing population
- improving the life opportunities of residents in areas of poor quality housing and deprivation
- addressing the challenges of an ageing population and supporting vulnerable people to live independent lives for as long as possible
The focus is on investment in new and existing homes and neighbourhoods, and helping to drive and support economic growth.
The Housing Strategy also forms a key strand of the Mayor’s 2025 Vision of a town where people want to live, with fair access to high quality homes for all.
Key issues raised during the consultation period included welfare reform and assessment of housing needs, green field versus brown field development, infrastructure, environmental considerations and the links between poor housing quality and health.
Welcoming the Housing Strategy, Councillor Lewis Young, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Economic Development and Infrastructure, said: “Our overarching aim is to ensure Middlesbrough continues to grow and prosper.
“The borough is the beating heart of the Tees Valley city region, and its success will boost the fortunes of the area as a whole.
“A key strand of our approach is a housing offer that meets the diverse needs and aspirations of all our communities, and contributes to people living healthier and happier lives.
“The current Government is building for decline, but here in Middlesbrough our ambition is to build for the future, to grow our Council Tax base and strengthen our financial position.
“That’s why the biggest house-building programme in our history is at the heart of our ambitious Investment Prospectus which is already attracting the new businesses, entrepreneurs and investment needed for job creation and long-term prosperity.
“During the consultation process members of the public have given constructive and helpful input, and that has informed the final version of the Housing Strategy.”
- A final version of the Middlesbrough Housing Strategy 2017-20 will be published on the Council’s website in due course.