East midlands tipped as top for growth

The east Midlands region has been forecast to be the highest region in Britain for population growth over the decade from 2006 to 2016.

A projection published yesterday by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) put the likely population of the region in 2016 at 4.8 million, 11 per cent and 0.5 million people more than the 2006 figure.

Of all the districts of the east Midlands, the greatest growth has been predicted for South Northamptonshire at 23 per cent, with the only district in the whole country expected to grow faster being Camden in north London at 26 per cent.

The second fastest growing region during the period will be the east of England at ten per cent, the ONS added.

Such projections indicate that the east Midlands region may be facing a faster-growing demand for new homes than other parts of the country.

Those living there who may be concerned that not enough homes will be built may decide to opt for the self build option to ensure they have the home they want.

Government housebuilding targets are looking less likely to be met due to the declining number being constructed now as a response to the slowing property market, the Financial Times reported earlier this week.

Columnist Jim Pickard described the target of building 200,000 new homes a year as "increasingly hallucinogenic".