Audit Wales: Public’s views sought as Wales strives to build 20,000 new homes by 2026

Audit Wales is inviting public opinion for a comprehensive study on the ambitious goal set by the Welsh Government to build 20,000 new low-carbon social homes for rent by 2026.

This move follows the completion of about 2,600 homes in the first year, indicating a significant acceleration required to achieve the set target.

The current housing target is considerably more challenging than the previous one set for the 2016-2021 period, with new obstacles having surfaced since the target’s inception.

Addressing the acute need for affordable housing in Wales is a central policy of the Welsh Government.

The financial demand is significant, with the government estimating that at least £1.6 billion will be needed over the current Senedd term to deliver on its affordable housing target.

In 2019, the Independent Review of Affordable Housing Supply offered several recommendations to enhance the programme, most of which have been accepted by the Welsh Government.

The audit will scrutinise the Welsh Government’s use of resources to achieve the target and its associated benefits.

Among the factors to be evaluated include how housing needs are assessed, the appraisal of funding bids, and the supply of suitable development sites.

However, the audit will not cover the management of existing housing stock or broader issues in the housing market, such as the rise of second home ownership in specific parts of Wales.

The call for evidence is a short survey with open-ended questions about what has worked well, what could work better, and the main issues that need to be overcome to meet the target.

The audit seeks views from public bodies, housing associations, third sector organisations, interested individuals, and private companies involved in the development, construction, and financing of affordable housing.

Responses to the call for evidence will provide a broad view of perspectives from key stakeholders and organisations across Wales.

The call for evidence will close on 28 July 2023 – to take part, click here: Call for evidence survey [opens in new window].

For more information, interested parties can contact [email protected].