There has been an 82 per cent reduction in the number of private properties available for rent on the Isle of Wight over the last two years, the Isle of Wight Association of Local Councils (IWALC) has heard.
The Isle of Wight Council’s Strategic Manager for Housing and Homelessness has been speaking of his concern about the impact it is having on Islanders living in temporary accommodation.
Jamie Brenchley told a meeting there was increasing demand on social housing.
He said 325 children are among those living in temporary accommodation here, currently.
Cllr Diana Conyers, Chair of IWALC, said: ‘We get lots of complaints from our members about housing developments imposed on them from above.
"They are not against housing per se.
"Their concern is that these developments don’t provide the sort of housing that local residents need or can afford.’
The leader of the Isle of Wight Council, Cllr Lora Peacey-Wilcox said: "Having grown up on a large council estate in Cowes, I understand the need for social housing.
"Knowing you have a roof over your head is vital to wellbeing."
In a budget agreed by the Isle of Wight Council last week, priority will be given to increasing affordable homes for Islanders.
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