Plans to boost affordable homes

More affordable homes in Wales are planned

A scheme to increase the numbers of affordable homes in Wales could see all new housing developments offering houses for lower income families.

The proposals were unveiled by Housing Minister Jane Davidson, who said she wanted to support sustainable communities via planning guidelines.

The plans would also allow new-build housing for retiring farmers and family members working on the farm.

But Conservatives said not enough has been invested enough in rural housing.

Under the scheme, as well as helping farmers, people working in legitimate rural businesses would also be covered.

There are proposals too to allow local planning authorities to develop policies for low-impact developments where people live and work on the land.

"These are exciting proposals. Affordable homes for people who live and work in rural areas is a major commitment of the assembly government," said Ms Davidson.

"I am determined to provide the support through our planning guidelines, to help build living, sustainable communities."

The Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) welcomed the announcement and said there was a real problem providing homes for retiring farmers.

"If providing homes for retired farmers means a dwelling house on the farm, this indeed would be good news," said Emyr James of the FUW.

Conservatives said Ms Davidson was right to identify affordable housing in rural areas as an issue of concern.

Conservative housing spokesman Mark Isherwood said: "We've long called for such a strategy. However the assembly government has consistently failed to invest sufficiently in social and affordable housing."

The consultation process closes in October.