Eco-obsession will stifle affordability
The point made by property consultancy King Sturge (Green homes will constrain affordable housing, www.insidehousing.co.uk) that financial cuts and tight regulations on green housing will restrict the government’s ability to deliver affordable housing is absolutely on the mark.
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Everyone is aware that the initial cost of building sustainable housing is high and that it has become an even greater financial challenge following government funding cuts.
However, I believe we must consider the financial implications of doing nothing. As Lord Stern said, the costs of inaction and its future consequences far outweigh the costs of doing something about it now. If we do not tackle this issue it will only result in an increase in costs for the future. For example, fuel poverty - households that spend more than 10 per cent of their income on utility bills - will become an increasing financial burden if no efforts are made to reduce domestic energy consumption.
Furthermore, with a focus on the whole lifecycle of buildings, well designed, flexible, energy and water efficient housing will actually reduce operating costs for residents.
In my view, it will be innovative housing associations and developers ahead of legislation who are in a better position to provide the funding solutions to build both affordable and sustainable housing.
Paul Crossley, sustainability manager, Robinson Low Francis