Solution to housing crisis is in council’s hands

I’m becoming increasingly aware that the lack of affordable rental property in West Dorset is fast approaching a critical level. The problem seems to be particularly acute for young people. However, as most of my information is anecdotal I would really welcome people who are directly affected by this shortage, or for any agency working to support people who are struggling to find somewhere to live in the area, to contact me. You can do this either by emailing me at cllrkelvin.clayton @dorsetcouncil.gov.uk, or by calling in to see me at my weekly surgery in Bridport (9.30-10.30am on a Wednesday at Soulshine in South Street).

One initiative that could

By KELVIN CLAYTON West Dorset Green Party

potentially ease the situation, by freeing up unused accommodation, is the proposed 200% increase in Council Tax on second homes and empty homes. The last meeting of Dorset Council’s Cabinet decided to defer a decision on this to allow for a wider debate amongst councillors. However, even if Dorset Council approves the idea it would still be dependent on the Government’s ‘levelling up’ legislation receiving Royal Assent. These changes would not affect holiday homes which are let out on a commercial basis and, therefore, pay business rates rather than council tax. They