Flint in affordable homes plan launch

Housing minister Caroline Flint has announced the introduction of a new scheme aiming to boost the market and increase the building of affordable homes.

The Department for Communities and Local Government said £270 million would be spent via the Housing Corporation constructing the homes over the next three years, of which 1,500 would be for shared ownership.

Pledging that the government will go on trying to help those struggling to get on the ladder, Ms Flint stated: "I am determined that we do everything possible to continue to promote stability and fairness in the housing market and maintain our long-term focus on increasing housing supply."

However, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) argued that the money was not new cash but funds that have already been allocated.

FMB director of external affairs Brian Berry suggested other measures would be more effective, such as swifter planning processes and bringing the 675,000 empty homes in England back into use.

Those concerned at the lack of affordable homes may seek to solve the issue for themselves using the self build method.