Cornwall sees a drop in affordable homes, sparking criticism. A local politician blames the current government for poor performance.
Andrew Mitchell blamed the current government, saying they offer nothing to locals. He stated prior governments performed better. The prior group was Lib Dem and Independent, but now conservatives are in charge of housing.
Mitchell thinks the housing performance is poor and says it reveals wider council problems. Cornwall should do better as the fifth largest area. Other councils built more homes, with Newham and Barnet leading the way.
Elections arrive on May 1. Independents want housing to be a priority, specifically homes for local families. Many residents await housing on a list, and some live in emergency housing while funds deplete. Empty homes also increased considerably.
Olly Monk, in charge of housing, has responded, saying they still build many affordable homes. He stated issues affect building across the whole UK because building costs rose, and interest rates are high too. Monk blamed the prior government’s planning.
Monk said housing projects take years to complete and current numbers reflect the past’s decisions. He believes their efforts will improve housing. Voters can choose in May’s election to endorse current housing plans, or they could also return to past council leadership.