NHF: Federation welcomes Government housing announcement

The National Housing Federation has welcomed today's announcement of further measures to boost the delivery of affordable housing and support current homeowners.

David Orr, chief executive of the National Housing Federation, said, "It is good that the Government is thinking creatively about addressing our affordable homes shortage, supporting current homeowners and assisting housebuilders in the current challenging environment.

"'Try before you buy' schemes make a lot of sense - and as the homes involved in this new pilot will be provided by housing associations, they will be of higher quality and better for the environment than homes built for sale on the open market. We'll be analysing the new proposals closely to make sure they are financially viable for homebuyers and housing associations, but we are encouraged by the details we have seen so far.

"We are glad that the Government is considering our proposals for a nationwide mortgage rescue scheme run by housing associations, and for them to be given greater resources to buy homes from private housebuilders. We urge ministers to bring forward these measures as soon as possible."

For press enquiries contact:

Joe Dumont, 020 7067 1028 / 07990 638946, josephd@housing.org.uk
Paul Rees, 020 7067 1026 / 07974 826587, paulrees@housing.org.uk


Notes to editors

The National Housing Federation represents 1300 independent, not-for-profit housing associations in England Together, our members provide 2 million affordable homes for around 5 million people. www.housing.org.uk