A SENIOR councillor says a new strategy will help tackle homelessness across Lichfield and Burntwood.
Members of Lichfield District Council’s cabinet have approved a new five-year plan to ensure “no-one is left behind” when it comes to accessing housing.
The Housing, Homeless, Rough Sleeping Strategy outlines how the local authority intends to prevent homelessness, eradicate rough sleeping, deliver more affordable and social housing and improve the quality of existing homes.
It comes as new figures reveal that 2,200 households across the Lichfield district are living in unsuitable housing – and the number of people waiting for an affordable home has risen by over 14% in the last year.
The strategy pledges the delivery of 200 new council homes, including 30 temporary accommodation sites as part of proposals to end the use of bed and breakfast facilities completely.
Cllr Alex Farrell, cabinet member for housing and the Local Plan, said:
“This strategy is a strong statement of intent. We know that housing need is rising, and we’re committed to doing everything we can to prevent homelessness, build more genuinely affordable homes, and improve the quality of housing across the district.
“Everyone deserves a safe, secure and suitable place to live.
“Nationally, affordable housing is defined as housing costing no more than 80% of market rent, but with private rents in Lichfield district rising sharply, this can still be out of reach for many.
“That’s why the council is focused on delivering genuinely affordable options, delivering both independently and challenging partners to do the same.”
