The council's Labour Group housing spokesperson, Coun. Tracey Simpson-Laing, today decided to answer, in public, a letter sent to her by Geoff Scott of Hogg the Builder regarding the council's affordable housing policy.

"Mr Scott has, since its introduction, been one of the voices complaining about York's 50% affordable housing policy. On a number of occasions I and others have tried to explain that City of York Council's policy, that the level of 50% ‘affordable housing' is one set to ensure that a fair amount of affordable housing is provided in the city for those on limited income. I would like to remind Mr Scott that the 50% affordable is a maximum figure, as it is appreciated that where there is contamination, and other development issues affecting costs, then this percentage can be negotiated down".

"Mr Scott's letter said that he was not aware of any other developer in the city that is successfully operating within, and I quote, ‘this restrictive policy' and asked that I identify a developer in York who was successfully delivered sites with 50% affordable homes".

Coun. Simpson-Laing has obtained figures from the council. She notes that this shows a mixture of ‘affordable' percentages achieved, as would be expected due to the fact that sites vary across the city.

"Mr Scott will note there has been a mixed percentage of properties either delivered or receiving planning permission. This is no different from when the council introduced its 25% affordable housing policy some years ago, and when vocal voices said it would not work. It was clear then that there can be mitigating circumstances on sites as there can be today. I hope now that the council's policy is clearer".

Coun. Simpson-Laing says the council should continue to defend its affordable housing policy so that workers across the city have the opportunity to live in decent affordable homes, particularly when the average house price for 2 bed house is around £140k, and over 40% of the city homes have a household income of less than £20k per year.