Local MP calls for action to prevent rural exodus
As the Halifax Rural House Price Index was published today, Dan Rogerson, MP for North Cornwall called for urgent action to prevent a 'rural exodus'.
The survey shows that house prices in rural areas have increased by 89% in the last five years from £166,255 in 2000 to £219,901 in 2005.
The problem is particularly acute in the South West. North Cornwall tops the league for the most unaffordable homes in the UK, Dan Rogerson, with a has a house price to earnings ratio of ten to one, putting mortgages housing far out of range of most local people.
Figures uncovered last week by the Liberal Democrats show the full extent of the difficulties faced by rural homebuyers, with house prices in some areas rocketing by 139%.
Dan Rogerson, Liberal Democrat Housing spokesman and MP for North Cornwall, said:
"First time buyers are increasingly unable to afford these spiralling prices, which can only be harmful to rural communities. The government must act as a matter of urgency to prevent an exodus of local people from as first time buyers are forced out."
"The government must get on with implementing the recommendations of the Affordable Rural Housing Commission. Local councils must be given sufficient planning powers to address their housing needs."
