HC Deb 15 October 2003 vol 411 cc275-6W
Ms Oona King

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what measures he is taking to ensure that affordable housing made available through planning gain is family-sized accommodation. [132086]

Keith Hill

Planning policies for affordable housing are set out in Planning Policy Guidance note 3, "Housing", and in Circular 6/98, "Planning and Affordable Housing". This sets out how local authorities should plan to meet the housing requirements of the whole community, including those in need of affordable housing and family-sized accommodation. These requirements can be met through several routes, including planning obligations.

On 17 July, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister published for consultation "Influencing the size, type and affordability of housing", which set out proposed changes to the current policies on planning for affordable housing. The aim of these updates is to improve the match between the housing planned and the needs of the community. The consultation period closes on 31 October.