Councils are ‘rising to the challenge' of building affordable homes, but there is a ‘lack of confidence' in following it through, according to local government research. A new report, A new generation of council housing, highlights the reforms needed to deliver homes. The study, commissioned by Unison from Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE), warned ‘clear guidance' is needed from the Government to provide ‘more certainty for the longer term', as well as support for developing house-building capacity – with recommendations APSE develop forums to share knowledge. Local benefits should be outlined too prior to building – using Community Benefits Clauses. The report also says the HCA should provide ‘more support' to councils struggling with the bureaucracy of funding opportunities. Housing Minister John Healey said: ‘Councils have a central role in providing the homes this country needs. I recognise they want the freedom to take the lead on meeting local housing needs.' Dave Prentis, General Secretary of Unison, said: ‘The report shows with political will, council housing can deliver the homes we need.'
