Recent research by AXA shows an increased understanding by individuals that social housing needs to be built in their neighbourhoods.

This is very positive, particularly at a time when the Government is seeking to reform planning to help support new developments. The change in mindset is perhaps a recognition of the housing crisis and an acceptance of the country’s need to provide more homes.

The report highlights the need for communication between planners and local residents. No doubt concerns around infrastructure to support new developments will need to be addressed to keep the population in favour of new homes in their areas. A view supported by many of the RPs that we work for, who are concerned with building communities - not just houses.

this could be down to the fact that social inequality is perceived to have risen: 45% believe they can see signs of social inequality where they live, including higher levels of crime in certain areas, issues surrounding unemployment, the availability of local services and so on.