We welcome the opportunity to comment on the Welsh Government’s first housing strategy. We support the holistic approach to housing taken in the White Paper and welcome further discussion as the Welsh Government moves to implement the proposals.

We support improvements to the private rented sector. We question whether a register of landlords and accreditation of letting and managing agents is the most appropriate way of improving consumer experience and would urge the Welsh Government to undertake a full cost-benefit analysis prior to developing the policy any further. Other measures including clearer information to consumers on deposits and charges and longer leases would also help consumer experiences of the private rented sector.

We welcome the development of the co-operative housing model and better definition of community land trusts. These models can help to provide affordable housing for communities and also help to support self-build housing. In areas where demand for housing outstrips supply, community land trusts and co-operative housing can play a valuable part in accommodating those who might otherwise have to move elsewhere to find housing.

The full response can be downloaded from the link below:

BSA response to the Homes for Wales White Paper