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Newly Established Devon Housing Commission Tasked with Resolving Local Housing Dilemma

Experts, including councilors and parliamentarians, have been assembled in Devon to tackle the growing problem of inadequate housing. The newly formed Devon Housing Commission, aiming to present a robust argument to the government, is tasked with finding solutions to issues such as homelessness...

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Appointment of New Devon Housing Commission to Address Existing Housing Predicament
Appointment of New Devon Housing Commission to Address Existing Housing Predicament

Newly Established Devon Housing Commission Tasked with Resolving Local Housing Dilemma

Devon, a picturesque county in the southwest of England, is facing a significant housing shortage, and a new commission has been appointed to address this pressing issue. The Devon Housing Commission, a team consisting of experts, councillors, and parliamentarians, has been set up to find solutions to the county's housing crisis.

The commission, which is being funded by the University of Exeter and local authorities across Devon, Plymouth, and Torbay, aims to make a strong case to the government on how to approach homelessness, affordability, and second homes in the region. The announcement of the commission has been accepted positively, as housing issues in the county have been increasing for nearly three years.

In 2021, Devon County Council leader, Cllr John Hart, stated that rising house prices and a lack of rental properties in the area had resulted in a housing emergency. The current cost-of-living crisis, which shows no signs of settling down soon, has further contributed to housing shortages.

The commission will address various issues, including homelessness, housing affordability, creating attractive communities, integrating housing with healthcare, the impact of short-term letting, holiday accommodation, student housing, and second homes. It will also analyse how to deliver affordable housing in rural communities while protecting the environment.

A spokesperson from the University of Exeter stated that a shortage of appropriate homes is affecting both people's health and the economy. 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 will seek views from communities in Devon to help inform the case it makes to the government. The search results do not provide information about the experts appointed to solve the housing shortage or the institutions supporting this project. However, the positive reception and the comprehensive mandate of the Devon Housing Commission offer hope for a solution to the county's housing crisis.

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