The Darwen housing market has gone through a sea change in the past decades. With the Buy-to-Let (B-T-L) sector evolving as a key trend, for both tenants and landlords.
A few weeks ago, the Government released a White Paper on housing. I have had a chance now to digest the report and wish to offer my thoughts on the topic. It was interesting that the private rental sector played a major part in the future plans for housing. This is especially important for our growing Darwen population
In 1981, the population of the Blackburn with Darwen Council area stood at 142,500. Today it stands at 146,800.
Currently, the private rented (B-T-L) sector accounts for 19.9% of households in the town. The Government want to assist people living in the houses and help the economy by encouraging the provision of quality homes. In a housing sector that has grown due to worldwide economic forces. Pushing home ownership out of the reach of more and more people. Interestingly, when we look at the 1981 figures for homeownership, a different story is told.
65.42% Darwen people owned their own home in 1981
29.63% Darwen people rented from the Council or Housing Association in 1981
and 4.95% Darwen rented from a Private Landlord
The significance of a suitable housing policy is vital to ensure suitable economic activity and create a vibrant place people want to live in. With the population of the Blackburn with Darwen area set to grow to 144,000 by 2037. It is imperative that Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and Central Government all work actively together to ensure the residential property market doesn’t hold the area back. By encouraging the building and provision of quality homes for its inhabitants.
One idea the Government has proclaimed is a variety of measures aimed at encouraging the Build-to-Rent (B-T-R) sector (instead of the B-T-L sector). These include allowing local authorities to proactively plan for B-T-R schemes. Making it simpler for B-T-R developers to offer inexpensive private rented homes.
To do this, the government will invent a distinct affordable housing class for B-T-R, called ‘Affordable Private Rent’. Which will oblige new homes builders to provide at least 1 in 5 of a new home developments at a 20% discount on open-market rents and three year tenancies for tenants. In return, the new homebuilders will get better planning assurances.
Private landlords will not be expected to offer discounts, nor offer 3-year tenancies. But it is something Darwen landlords need to be aware of as there will be greater competition for tenants.
Over the last ten years, home ownership has not been a primary goal for young adults as the world has changed. These youngsters expect ‘on demand’ services from click and collect, Amazon, Dating Apps and TV with the likes of Netflix. Many Darwen youngsters see that renting more than meets their accommodation needs, as it combines the freedom from a lifetime of property maintenance and financial obligations, making it an attractive lifestyle option.
Private rented housing in Darwen and Blackburn, be it B-T-L or B-T-R, has the prospective to play a very positive role.
For more thoughts on the property market visit our Blog.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article