Comment on new Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary

Bjorn Howard, chief executive of housing association Aster Group, said:

“This government’s ethos on housing has been consistent, despite a number of changes in personnel. While there are areas of the current strategy that would benefit from further thought – particularly how new social housing will be delivered in the future – I would urge Mr Gove not to radically alter course now.

“The government’s housing plan sets out a clear focus on delivering choice. Recognising the importance of shared ownership and investing in rural social housing infrastructure are great positives of the current strategy.

“If I had one ask of the new secretary of state, it would be to give community land trusts greater funding. Currently, so few developments are run through these schemes where housing projects are put in the hands of the people they are for. I hope the housing secretary’s expanded remit, covering the levelling up agenda, will give him a more holistic view that sees the value of giving communities a say in the delivery the housing and other support they need.

“Recent government investment in housing should be welcomed. Consistency now will help us to make the most of that support and continue placing communities at the heart of our delivery strategy.”