PLANS to tackle the affordable housing shortage in the New Forest over the next five years have been discussed by councillors.

New Forest District Council’s Draft Housing Strategy 2018-2023 went before the New Forest District Council's cabinet on October 4.

The strategy, which sets out the council's proposed approach to pro-actively addressing housing need in the district, will be subject to public consultation.

The Housing Strategy, and the Delivery Action Plan which accompanies it, acknowledge the shortage in the New Forest of homes which are genuinely affordable

The proposals identify a range of ways in which the council will enhance the housing options available and the supply of affordable housing for the benefit of local people.

It also aims to ensure the best use of homes owned by the council and address the challenges the council's housing service faces as a result of recent welfare reforms.

The strategy outlines the following themes to the approach.

Maximise delivery of affordable housing through a range of options to meet local housing needs, address the housing needs of vulnerable and homeless people, and working in partnership to address the housing needs of New Forest residents.

Flo Churchill, executive head of planning and housing, said: “We know that housing is expensive across the district and we want to be active in helping to provide different options for our residents and at the same time ensuring we increase the supply and quality of housing that we control.”