Last chance for views on Right to Buy scheme

THERE’S just a few days left for people to make their views known regarding plans to amend, or suspend, the Right to Buy scheme.

Carmarthenshire County Council is supporting the Welsh Government’s consultation on the proposals which could give individual local authorities the permission to suspend the Right to Buy in their areas for up to five years.

If the proposal goes ahead, any suspension could be restricted to certain areas or property types, depending on local housing need.

It is aimed at maintaining the availability of social housing in times of extraordinary pressure.

The Right to Acquire for secure tenants of housing associations may also be affected.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s housing department wants tenants, residents, and the wider public, to air their views before the Welsh Government makes its decision.

Responses need to be made by the end of October.

Head of Housing, Robin Staines, said: “Suspending the Right to Buy scheme in certain areas would effectively mean that the council can retain its housing stock in order to keep up with demand in areas of highest need.

“This could be restricted to certain areas of the county, or could be restricted to certain kinds of properties – for example three-bedroom homes which are highly sought after by families.

“It is important that people understand the reasons as to why the Welsh Government is looking to suspend, or amend, the scheme, and it is equally important that people share their views before the consultation period ends.”

Those wishing to make their views known can either respond generally, or answer a series of questions on specific issues which indicate housing pressure.

To access further information and respond directly to the Welsh Government visit www.wales.gov.uk/consultations up until October 31st.