Planning

The current housing affordability crisis is an issue affecting the entire country. Whilst this is often highlighted in reference to urban areas, it is a prominent issue for our rural communities and with its own distinct challenges. Limited rural amenities, environmental protection restrictions and increasing property prices, can restrict development in rural areas. On average, lower incomes in rural areas, an increase in urban migration to the countryside alongside a rise in remote working, and a rise in holiday lets, mean that demand for rural housing often outstrips supply. This demand drives up costs beyond that which local residents can afford. There are huge benefits to increasing the number of rural affordable homes including sustaining rural economies, ensuring local families can remain in close proximity, and improving mental and physical health reducing pressure on the NHS. Worfield & Rudge Parish Council published a ‘Parish Plan’ document in 2012 detailing the views of surveyed local people to form a blueprint for future actions. The findings communicated a strong need for preserving the rural setting and a safe, spacious environment but less certainty on local housing need. A local awareness of rising national need and high development targets have contributed to the Parish Council wanting to learn more about local housing need in order to better instruct future action. Worfield & Rudge Parish Council commissioned the Rural Housing Enabler of Community Resource to conduct a survey to focus specifically on local housing needs information within and relating to the parish. This service was free and impartial (see section; ‘About Community Resource’). In legal context, ‘housing need’ typically refers to a situation where a person or household lacks suitable and affordable housing that meets their basic needs. This often includes situations where individuals:

• Cannot afford local housing at market prices e.g. Unable to get on the housing ladder without moving away.

• Are living in unsuitable or overcrowded conditions.

• Require housing due to vulnerability, such as disability or medical needs e.g. Downsizing or one-floor options for older residents with mobility issues.

The survey opened 3rd February 2025 and initially ended 24th February 2025. Following Parish Council feedback regarding opportunities to reach more people the survey was soon reopened, ending 21st March 2025.