Councillors set to approve new Affordable Housing Strategy for Mole Valley
The District Council says residents are being forced out of the area because they can't afford to rent or buy
A strategy to boost affordable housing in an area of Surrey by 2030, has been set out.
Rising house prices are creating a financial barrier for residents - and those wishing to move into Mole Valley - according to the district council.
It wants to make better use of current stock, and is considering becoming a developer and landlord of social housing.
A report, which recommends Councillors approve a new Affordable Housing Strategy, will be considered at Scrutiny and Cabinet meetings on the 8th and 22nd July 2025 respectively.
It would define ways in which homes for existing and prospective residents on lower incomes, are delivered.
There has been an increasing demand for social housing in the district, with 709 housing register applications in 2024/25; an increase of 11% on the previous year.
There are currently 662 households on the housing register awaiting social housing with an average of 178 properties being let each year.
Councillor Caroline Joseph, MVDC’s Cabinet Member for Services and Security, said: “The prospect of adopting a Strategy that includes measures to help house those most in need – who otherwise would not have the opportunity to live, and potentially work and contribute to the local economy in our district – is a significant step forward.
"While the shortage of affordable housing is by no means unique to Mole Valley, we have a responsibility to do all we can to provide homes for individuals and families. If, as expected, two or more unitary authorities come into force from 2027, this Strategy would be transferable, with the methods it contains able to support the delivery of increased affordable housing opportunities.”
The council says as Mole Valley is considered a beautiful location which is easily commutable to London - these factors have 'driven up the cost of homes in the district and created a barrier not only to many households who would wish to move into the area, but also existing residents who are being forced out of the district because they cannot afford to either rent or buy.'
The draft Affordable Housing Strategy 2025-30 sets out plans for future development of more affordable homes in the district.
It highlights 12 main objectives to meet this purpose; from making the best use of existing housing stock, to working with developers to ensure affordable rents in both the social and private sector are no higher than the local housing allowance level.
It seeks to find solutions for both the urban and rural areas of the district and also includes measures to promote low-cost home ownership opportunities, alongside social and affordable rents.