Bristol mayor hopefuls encouraged to address housing issues

Last week the group attended the election hustings and urged candidates to adopt its housing proposals, as outlined in their manifesto 'Bristol: Housing issues, housing solutions'.

Policies outlined in the manifesto include support for the building of affordable housing through a social investment fund; and kick starting economic growth by developing on disused sites. The manifesto also calls for action to improve the private rented sector by tackling rogue landlords; dealing with the impact of welfare reform, and developing a range of innovative housing, funding and support options for vulnerable and older people.

The group also urges the Mayor to take a strategic approach to the energy efficiency of Bristol’s existing homes.

The group, supported by the National Housing Federation, feels that many families and younger people find it difficult to find suitable and affordable housing in Bristol.

"The average house price in the city is over ten times the average income," the group claims on its website. "More than 10,000 households are on the waiting list for an affordable home and the number of new affordable homes being built falls far short of the amount the council believes is necessary to meet demand."

On 15 November 2012 Bristol will vote for its first elected mayor. The mayor will replace the current Council Leader to lead the city council and its full range of services, and be responsible for the executive functions of the Council.