This news article was first published on the Cambridgeshire ACRE website. 

Rural Cambridgeshire is a vibrant part of the UK, filled with rich history, stunning landscapes and closely-knit communities. However, many of these communities face increasing challenges due to a shortage of affordable housing. High property prices, limited development opportunities and growing demand for rural living have left many local residents struggling to secure homes. Cambridgeshire ACRE is at the forefront of addressing these challenges and Housing Needs Surveys are a key tool in our efforts.

What Is a Housing Needs Survey?

A Housing Needs Survey is a powerful way to assess local housing requirements systematically. It involves distributing an anonymous questionnaire to every household in a parish, allowing residents to share their specific housing challenges and aspirations. The results provide evidence-based insights into the type and number of homes needed and the affordability challenges faced by the community.

Why Are Housing Needs Surveys Essential for Rural Cambridgeshire?

Understanding Local Challenges

Cambridgeshire’s rural communities each have unique housing needs. For instance, some villages may require affordable rental homes for young families, while others may need homes designed for older residents wishing to downsize. A Housing Needs Survey ensures the specific needs of each parish are identified and addressed.

Supporting Rural Exception Sites

Surveys play a critical role in supporting Rural Exception Sites, which allow for small-scale affordable housing developments on land not normally available for housing. These developments provide homes for local people with strong connections to the community. Cambridgeshire ACRE regularly works with parishes to facilitate such projects, ensuring they are tailored to meet local needs.

Strengthening The Evidence Base For Planning

Local authorities require clear evidence to approve housing developments. Housing Needs Surveys commissioned through Cambridgeshire ACRE provide robust, independent data that supports planning applications and demonstrates the necessity of affordable housing for the long-term sustainability of rural villages.

Enhancing Community Engagement

Engaging residents in the survey process fosters trust and collaboration. It dispels misconceptions about affordable housing and allows councils to communicate the benefits of new developments. Cambridgeshire ACRE provides guidance on this process, helping parishes build consensus.

Empowering Local Leadership

As part of our commitment to empowering local leaders, Cambridgeshire ACRE works closely with Parish Councils, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to address housing challenges effectively. Housing Needs Surveys are often the first step in transforming aspirations into actionable projects.

Sustaining Local Economies

Affordable housing ensures that key workers, young families and older residents can remain in their communities, supporting local businesses, schools and services. In Cambridgeshire, retaining a local workforce is vital for the region’s economic health.

Cambridgeshire ACRE’s Role

At Cambridgeshire ACRE, we offer tailored support to Parish Councils undertaking Housing Needs Surveys. From commissioning surveys to analysing results, we guide councils through every step. Our experience in rural housing ensures that parishes receive actionable recommendations based on the unique challenges they face.

Success Stories

Cambridgeshire ACRE has already supported numerous parishes in delivering affordable housing. For example, in villages like Colne and Willingham, Housing Needs Surveys identified critical gaps, leading to successful developments that have revitalised these communities.

Take The First Step

If you’re a Parish Council in Cambridgeshire concerned about local housing challenges, Cambridgeshire ACRE is here to help. A Housing Needs Survey is not just a report—it’s a roadmap to a thriving future for your community. Let’s work together to ensure everyone has the opportunity to live and work in the place they call home. A short brochure explaining our work is available here.

For more information, contact Gary Roffey at Cambridgeshire ACRE to learn how we can support your parish in commissioning a Housing Needs Survey and addressing rural housing challenges. Together, we can make a difference.