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Appointed New Commission for Housing in Devon to address the ongoing housing predicament

Experts, councillors, and parliamentarians have been assembled in Devon to tackle the increasing housing predicament. The newly formed Devon Housing Commission, composed of professionals, aims to build a robust argument to present to the government, outlining strategies for addressing...

Newly Instated Housing Commission for Devon to Address Persisting Housing Predicament
Newly Instated Housing Commission for Devon to Address Persisting Housing Predicament

Appointed New Commission for Housing in Devon to address the ongoing housing predicament

New Devon Housing Commission Aims to Address Persisting Housing Shortage

A new Devon Housing Commission has been appointed to tackle the ongoing housing crisis in the region. Funded by the University of Exeter and local authorities across Devon, Plymouth, and Torbay, the commission consists of experts, councillors, and parliamentarians.

The commission's task is to make a strong case to the government on housing issues in Devon, focusing on how to deliver affordable housing in rural communities while protecting the environment. The current cost-of-living crisis, which shows no signs of settling down soon, is contributing to housing shortages in Devon, as highlighted by a spokesperson from the University of Exeter.

A shortage of appropriate homes is affecting people's health and the economy, according to the spokesperson. Housing issues in Devon have been increasing for almost three years, with Cllr John Hart, former Devon County Council leader, declaring a housing emergency in 2021 due to rising house prices and a lack of rental properties.

The commission plans to seek views from communities in Devon to inform its case to the government. Councillor Mandy Ewings, leader of West Devon Borough Council and chair of the Devon Housing Task Force, views the new plan as a 'real opportunity' to bring together people and expertise.

The commission's case will include issues such as homelessness, housing affordability, creating attractive communities, integrating housing with healthcare, the impact of short-term letting, holiday accommodation, student housing, and second homes.

However, the search results do not provide information about the specific time when the Devon Housing Commission will begin its work to address the housing shortage in Devon. Despite this, the commission's establishment is seen as a positive step towards finding long-term solutions to Devon's housing issues.

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