The demand for new homes in and around London and the South East has outstripped supply, a phenomenon that has led to spiralling house prices. This has impacted particularly on first time buyers. In 1983 they made up 50% of all house purchases; in 2003 that figure had dropped to 22%. In order to address the problem of affordability in housing, we have to increase significantly the number of new homes.
As part of the overall Government strategy, Aylesbury Vale has been designated as one of the new growth areas where new homes will be built alongside carefully planned commercial development. This represents an opportunity not only to provide more homes – a move that will benefit the growing population of Aylesbury Vale as well as newcomers – but to improve the quality of life for all and to create sustainable communities.
A sustainable community is one where people want to live and work both now and in the future. It is a community where there are opportunities for everybody and where there is a framework of effective services for all residents. This means building homes that are stylistically attractive and in keeping with the architectural profile of the area. It entails building on the existing vibrant commercial community so employment keeps pace with the growing workforce. All this requires a sensitivity to environmental issues so that development minimises the risk to the delicate ecological balance – in short, regeneration through conservation.
The many plans for Aylesbury Vale’s regeneration programme are taking this into account. There are already fine examples which flesh out the principles of building for a sustainable community such as Watermead, a newly completed housing development on the north east outskirts of Aylesbury. Berryfields and Weedon Hill will be in the same mould as will the upcoming Waterside scheme which will greatly enhance the town of Aylesbury.
