The problem of lack of adequate accommodation with non-shared facilities can be solved by:
• a major investment in the manufacturing of factory built houses and accommodation units.
• a change in the planning regulations.
The manufacturing facilities in the UK for factory built houses are limited. The capacity can be increased substantially with a major capital boost. The investment could take several forms including public ownership, grants, interest free loans, etc. The new construction plants could be built in areas where traditional employment opportunities have evaporated but where the population remains without follow on work.
The benefits include:
• The relatively quick provision of new housing units
• The creation of new skilled jobs in areas of unemployment
• The products and know-how can be exported profitably
• Reduced carbon footprint in building houses and the long term reduction in energy consumption
• Helping those most in need in our communities
The Planning Regulations will need to be changed to provide greater flexibility in where factory built accommodation can be located. There may also be a need to adapt Building Regulations to allow the creation of “pods” for people who would otherwise be rough sleepers.
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