LONGPARISH PARISH COUNCIL

Housing Needs Survey Report
December 2005

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

All 303 households in Longparish were surveyed to assess local housing need. There was a good response rate: 29% questionnaires were completed and returned. At least 24 households are in housing need and would like to stay in the parish.

KEY FEATURES (SUMMARY OF MAIN OUTCOMES):

• In Longparish, there are fewer smaller, less valuable homes compared to larger, more valuable properties.
• The proportion of rented accommodation is larger than average across the Borough.
• The parish has a similar proportion of children compared to the Hampshire average, although overall there is an ageing population.
• House prices are high in the area, with a semi-detached house costing an average of £240,000. There are fewer smaller homes coming onto the market compared to the larger more expensive detached houses.
• Of the 43 properties currently owned by a registered social landlord in the parish, there are six units with 1-bed, 24 units with 2-beds and 13 units with 3-beds of more.
• The survey has identified at least 24 households who need a home in the village either now or in the next five years. There are also a number of households on the Housing Register that did not complete a survey form.
• The greatest demand for new accommodation comes from people in the 35-65 year old age group, with a large demand also from 16-34 year olds. Most are couples or families.
• The most common reason for needing to move is to set-up independent home. Other reasons include requiring a smaller or cheaper home, a larger home, a more secure home or a wish to move to the area because they have a strong local connection.
• All households in need have a take-home pay of less than £2500 per month, with many earning much less than this.
• 46% of respondents would like to buy their own house, a few of which may potentially be able to afford local house prices. But generally there is a large gap between the aspiration to buy and the likelihood that an affordable opportunity will arise.
• Some households would prefer shared ownership, but not all will be eligible for this tenure.
• Several households would like to rent from the public sector, most of whom have particularly low incomes. Only one household is looking to rent privately.
• Requests are made for a variety of types and sizes of accommodation.
• 81% of all respondents would support the idea of building a small affordable housing scheme for local people in the parish.

Community Action Hampshire recommends that a scheme be advanced as soon as possible, as follows: