Gateshead & Newcastle upon Tyne

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Opinion Research Services | The Strand Swansea SA1 1AF | 01792 535300 | www.ors.org.uk | [email protected] Gateshead & Newcastle upon Tyne Strategic Housing Market Assessment 2017 Report of Findings August 2017

Transcript of Gateshead & Newcastle upon Tyne

Opinion Research Services | The Strand • Swansea • SA1 1AF | 01792 535300 | www.ors.org.uk | [email protected]

Gateshead & Newcastle upon Tyne Strategic Housing Market Assessment 2017

Report of Findings August 2017

Opinion Research Services | Gateshead & Newcastle upon Tyne Strategic Housing Market Assessment 2017 August 2017

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Opinion Research Services | The Strand, Swansea SA1 1AF

Jonathan Lee | Nigel Moore | Karen Lee | Trevor Baker | Scott Lawrence

enquiries: 01792 535300 · [email protected] · www.ors.org.uk

© Copyright August 2017

Opinion Research Services | Gateshead & Newcastle upon Tyne Strategic Housing Market Assessment 2017 August 2017

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Contents Executive Summary ............................................................................................ 7

Summary of Key Findings and Conclusions 7

Introduction ................................................................................................................................................. 7

Calculating Objectively Assessed Needs ..................................................................................................... 8

Household Projections ................................................................................................................................ 9

Affordable Housing Need .......................................................................................................................... 11

Need for Older Person Housing ................................................................................................................. 12

Market Signals ........................................................................................................................................... 14

Conclusions ................................................................................................................................................ 15

Nationally Described Space Standards ...................................................................................................... 17

1. Introducing the Study .................................................................................. 19

Background to the project and wider policy context 19

Government Policy .................................................................................................................................... 19

Duty to Co-operate .................................................................................................................................... 21

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint Core Strategy 2010-2030 ............................................... 21

Housing White Paper .......................................................................................................................... 22

2. Defining the Housing Market Area .............................................................. 23

An evidence base to identify functional housing markets 23

Functional Housing Market Areas ............................................................................................................. 23

Planning Practice Guidance ................................................................................................................. 23

Geography of Housing Market Areas (NHPAU/CURDS) ...................................................................... 24

ONS Travel to Work Areas ................................................................................................................... 25

House Prices ........................................................................................................................................ 26

Valuation Office Agency Broad Rental Market Areas ......................................................................... 27

Administrative Boundaries and Housing Market Areas ............................................................................ 28

Key Statistics for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne HMA .................................................................. 31

Migration within the UK to and from Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne ..................................... 31

Travel to Work Patterns ...................................................................................................................... 33

Containment within the Combined Area ............................................................................................ 34

Conclusions ................................................................................................................................................ 34

3. Demographic Projections ............................................................................ 38

The starting point for Objectively Assessed Need 38

Process for Establishing Objectively Assessed Need ................................................................................. 38

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint Core Strategy 2010-30 ................................................... 39

Official Population and Household Projections .................................................................................. 39

Official Population Projections ............................................................................................................ 40

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Population and Household Projections based on Local Circumstances ............................................. 42

Reviewing the Official Population Estimates - Gateshead ........................................................................ 44

Components of Population Change .................................................................................................... 45

Estimating Population Change with Other Data ................................................................................. 48

Reviewing the Official Population Estimates – Newcastle upon Tyne ...................................................... 49

Components of Population Change .................................................................................................... 50

Estimating Population Change with Other Data ................................................................................. 53

Student Housing and the OAN .................................................................................................................. 54

Summary of Population Projection Adjustments ...................................................................................... 56

Establishing Population Projections .................................................................................................... 56

Economic Activity Projections ................................................................................................................... 59

Labour Market Participation Projections ............................................................................................ 61

Older People ........................................................................................................................................ 61

Female Participation ........................................................................................................................... 63

Young People ....................................................................................................................................... 64

Projecting Future Economic Activity for Gateshead ........................................................................... 65

Projecting Future Economic Activity for Newcastle upon Tyne .......................................................... 66

Household Population and Institutional Population ........................................................................... 67

Household Representative Rates ........................................................................................................ 69

Household Projections ........................................................................................................................ 71

Conclusions ................................................................................................................................................ 72

4. Affordable Housing Need ............................................................................ 73

Identifying households who cannot afford market housing 73

Introduction ............................................................................................................................................... 73

Planning Practice Guidance for Affordable Housing Needs ...................................................................... 74

Assessing Affordable Housing Needs ........................................................................................................ 75

Modelling Affordable Needs ..................................................................................................................... 76

Backlog of Affordable Housing Needs for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne .................................... 78

Past Trends and Current Estimates of the Need for Affordable Housing ................................................. 79

Local Authority Data: Homeless Households and Temporary Accommodation ................................. 79

Census Data: Concealed Households and Overcrowding ................................................................... 80

English Housing Survey Data ............................................................................................................... 84

Housing Register Data ......................................................................................................................... 88

Households Unable to Afford their Housing Costs ............................................................................. 91

Establishing Affordable Housing Need ...................................................................................................... 93

Current Unmet Need for Affordable Housing ..................................................................................... 94

Projected Future Affordable Housing Need ........................................................................................ 98

Assessing the Overall Need for Affordable Housing ......................................................................... 104

Conclusions .............................................................................................................................................. 107

5. Objectively Assessed Need ........................................................................ 109

Analysing the evidence to establish overall housing need 109

National Context for England .................................................................................................................. 110

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Household Growth ............................................................................................................................ 110

International Migration ..................................................................................................................... 110

Market Signals ................................................................................................................................... 111

Converting to Dwellings .................................................................................................................... 111

Establishing Objectively Assessed Need for Gateshead & Newcastle upon Tyne .................................. 112

CLG Household Projections ............................................................................................................... 112

Adjustments for Local Demography and Long-term Migration ........................................................ 113

Affordable Housing Need .................................................................................................................. 113

Need for Older Person Housing ............................................................................................................... 114

Employment Trends ................................................................................................................................ 114

Market Signals ................................................................................................................................... 117

House Prices ...................................................................................................................................... 118

Affordability ...................................................................................................................................... 121

Private Rent ....................................................................................................................................... 123

Housing Development ....................................................................................................................... 125

Overcrowding .................................................................................................................................... 127

Summary of Market Signals .............................................................................................................. 128

Housing Backlog ...................................................................................................................................... 130

Conclusions .............................................................................................................................................. 130

6. Housing needs of different groups ............................................................ 133

Considering the need for all types of housing 133

Projected Population Age Profile ............................................................................................................ 134

Household Projections ............................................................................................................................ 136

Housing Mix: Size and Tenure ................................................................................................................. 139

The Private Rented Sector ....................................................................................................................... 148

Black and Minority Ethnic Population ..................................................................................................... 154

Service Families ....................................................................................................................................... 157

People Wishing to Build their Own Homes ............................................................................................. 158

Housing for Older People ........................................................................................................................ 160

Households with Specific Needs ............................................................................................................. 165

Assessing the level of need for accessible and wheelchair housing ....................................................... 165

Current Planning Policy Context ....................................................................................................... 168

Population and health demographics ............................................................................................... 169

Wheelchair accessible homes ........................................................................................................... 176

Meeting the need for M4(2) accessible and M4(3) wheelchair user housing ........................................ 178

Older people – local context ................................................................................................................... 184

Gateshead ......................................................................................................................................... 184

Newcastle upon Tyne ........................................................................................................................ 186

Cost benefits of providing accessible and adaptable housing ................................................................ 188

7. Space Standards ........................................................................................ 192

Compliance with the 2015 Nationally Described Space Standards (NDSS) for Gross Internal Area

(GIA) 192

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Background .............................................................................................................................................. 192

Compliance with the 2015 NDSS for GIA 192

Background: Summary ............................................................................................................................ 193

Gateshead ............................................................................................................................................... 194

Newcastle ................................................................................................................................................ 194

8. Housing Requirements .............................................................................. 205

Considering the policy response to identified housing need 205

Affordable Housing Need ........................................................................................................................ 206

Older People in Residential Institutions (Use Class C2) .......................................................................... 209

Student Housing ...................................................................................................................................... 210

Gypsies and Travellers ............................................................................................................................. 212

Appendix 1: Stakeholder Engagement with the BME Community ................. 214

Stakeholder Engagement with the BME Community .............................................................................. 214

Stakeholder Fieldwork Consultation in Gateshead and Newcastle ........................................................ 215

Table of Figures .............................................................................................. 220

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Executive Summary Summary of Key Findings and Conclusions

Introduction

1. Opinion Research Services (ORS) was commissioned by Gateshead Council and Newcastle upon Tyne

City Council to undertake a Strategic Housing Market Assessment to establish the Objectively

Assessed Need for housing and review housing and planning policies ahead of their new Local Plans.

2. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)1 requires Local Planning Authorities to “ensure that

their Local Plan meets the full, objectively assessed needs for market and affordable housing in the

housing market area” and “identify the scale and mix of housing and the range of tenures that the

local population is likely to need over the plan period which meets household and population

projections, taking account of migration and demographic change” (paragraphs 47 and 159).

3. The Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint Core Strategy was adopted in March 2015 and this

SHMA represents a review and update of the evidence base which underwrote this document.

Figure 1: Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint Core Strategy

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint Core Strategy 2010-30

Adopted 2015 following examination in 2014

Sets a joint target for 30,000 homes and 22,000 across the 2 authorities

Viability in both authorities is quite low so the affordable housing target was set at 15%

North Tyneside Local Plan has been examined separately and sets a target of 790 dwellings per annum.

4. The Joint Core Strategy includes a provision for 30,000 more homes, 22,000 more jobs and also a

need for 15% of all new homes to be affordable housing on qualifying sites.

5. However, these figures were not evenly distributed across the 20 year period. Figure 2 shows the

estimated distribution of the housing target across the 15 year period starting in 2015. This shows

an annual need for Gateshead over the period 2015-30 of 535 dwellings per annum and 1,040

dwellings per annum for Newcastle upon Tyne for the same period.

1 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-planning-policy-framework--2

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Figure 2: Gatesheand and Newcastle upon Tyne Existing Housing Targets (Source: Gatershead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint

Core Strategy)

2015-2020 2020-2025 2025-2030 Total 2015-30

Gateshead 2,420 4,020 1,580 8,020

Newcastle upon Tyne 4,800 5,400 5,400 15,600

Total 7,220 9,420 6,980 23,620

6. In March 2014, the government produced new guidance on conducting housing needs assessments

in the form of ‘Guidance for Housing and Economic Development Needs Assessments’. Paragraphs

2-21 of this new guidance cover overall housing needs and paragraphs 22-29 cover affordable

housing needs. The new guidance includes a number of significant changes since the 2007 SHMA

Practice Guidance which underwrote much of the work leading to the Joint Core Strategy.

7. Alongside past changes to housing and planning policy, the Housing White Paper, “Fixing our broken

housing market’ was published in February 2017. One change flagged in the White Paper is a

change in definition for affordable housing to include Starter Homes at 20% discounts of market

prices. The inclusion of Starter Homes in a wider definition of affordable housing will require a

fundamental revision of who is considered to be in affordable housing need because the current

definition is based upon who can afford market housing, not owner occupied housing. Therefore, if

the Government proceed to include Starter Homes in the definition of affordable housing products,

they will also need to count many more households as being in affordable housing need than is

currently the case because all non-owning households who wish to purchase Starter Homes will

need to be included. Therefore, the affordable housing needs assessed in this study may require a

revision if and when the government applies this new definition.

Calculating Objectively Assessed Needs

8. Figure 3 sets out the process for establishing Objectively Assessed Need (OAN). Planning Policy

Guidance (PPG)2 identifies that “household projections published by the Department for

Communities and Local Government should provide the starting point estimate of overall housing

need” (ID 2a-015) which should be adjusted to take account of local circumstances. External market

and macro-economic constraints are then applied (‘Market Signals’) in order to embed the need in

the real world. It is important to recognise that the OAN does not take account of any possible

constraints to future housing supply. Such factors will be subsequently considered by the Councils

before establishing the final Housing Requirement.

2 http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/blog/guidance/housing-and-economic-development-needs-assessments/

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Figure 3: Process for establishing a Housing Number for the HMA (Source: ORS based on NPPF and PPG)

Household Projections

9. PPG identifies that the starting point for estimating OAN is the CLG household projections, and the

latest data is the 2014-based projection. For the 15-year period 2015-30, these projections suggest

an overall growth of 6,406 households, equivalent to an average of 427 households per year for

Gateshead and 15,047 households, equivalent to an average of 1,003 household per year for

Newcastle upon Tyne.

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Figure 4: Household Projections for Gatesheand and Newcastle upon Tyne

Household Projections for Gateshead

Area

Total Net change 2015-30

2015 2030 15-year change Annual average

CLG 2014-based projection

Households 90,226 96,632 6,406 427

Dwellings 93,043 99,649 6,606 440

SHMA 10-year trend (2005-15)

Households 91,068 98,420 7,352 490

Dwellings 93,916 101,498 7,582 505

Household Projections for Newcastle

Area

Total Net change 2015-30

2015 2030 15-year change Annual average

CLG 2014-based projection

Households 122,424 137,471 15,047 1,003

Dwellings 125,287 140,686 15,399 1,027

SHMA 10-year trend (2005-15)

Households 123,800 139,938 16,138 1,076

Dwellings 126,699 143,215 16,516 1,102

10. ORS have reviewed and assessed household projections as part of this study, considering the Patient

Register, other data sources and migration based on 10-year trend 2005-15. In summary, for this

SHMA we took the initial starting position of 2014 based projections, but made a number of

significant adjustments to this data:

» The starting point mid year estimate 2015 was adjusted upwards for Gateshead and

downwards for Newcastle upon Tyne based on evidence from the patient register. In

both cases the adjustment mirrors issues with the population data from between 2001

and 2011. This increases past and projected population growth in Gateshead and reduces

it in Newcastle upon Tyne;

» Migration trends were moved from 5 years in 2014-based Sub-National Population

projections to use 10 year migration trends between 2005-15 to better reflect the long-

term migration for both Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne. This increases projected

population growth in both authorities;

» A detailed analysis of the impact of students on the population and migration was

undertaken which showed that migration trends include a substantial growth in students,

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but there is no expectation that this will continue in to the future. Therefore the net

impact of students has been removed from the migration data. This reduces population

growth in both authorities; and

» Net migration from Newcastle upon Tyne to Gateshead grew from 2001 to 2011, for the

purposes of this study, and forecast trends, it has been assumed that the growth of

students in Newcastle led to an increase in out migration from Newcastle to Gateshead.

As previous student growth trends are expected to no longer continue it is also likely that

out migration to Gateshead will reduce. This assumption can be monitored over time.

11. On this basis, the data shows household numbers across the study area would increase over the 15-

year Plan period 2015-30 by an average of 490 per year in Gateshead and 1,076 per year in

Newcastle upon Tyne. These figures provide the most appropriate demographic projection on

which to base the Objectively Assessed Need (OAN) for housing. This difference is mainly due to a

higher projected increase in population in the SHMA projections. The figures represent an increase

on the starting point for Gateshead of 15% and for Newcastle upon Tyne of 7%. The figures for

Gateshead are slightly lower than those in the Joint Core Strategy for 2015-30, while the figures for

Newcastle upon Tyne are slightly higher. However, both figures are very close to the existing policy

positions in each authority with a rise across the two authorities of 2.1%.

Affordable Housing Need

12. The SHMA has undertaken a comprehensive analysis of the existing unmet need for affordable

housing. This analysis identified that the overall housing need by 258 households in Gateshead and

399 households in Newcastle upon Tyne to take account of concealed families and homeless

households that would not be captured by the household projections. When the unmet needs from

existing households living in unsuitable housing were also included, the analysis established there

to be 1,599 households in need of affordable housing in 2015 in Gateshead there to be 2,650

households in need of affordable housing in Newcastle upon Tyne.

13. However, as 960 of these already occupied an affordable home but need to move for reasons such

as overcrowding in Gateshead and 1,463 in Newcastle upon Tyne, therefore there is a net need from

639 households in Gateshead (1,599 less 960= 639) and 1,187 households in Newcastle upon Tyne

(2,650 less 1,463 = 1,187) who need affordable housing and do not currently occupy affordable

housing in 2015.

14. Based on the household projections, the SHMA has established the balance between the future

need for market housing and affordable housing. The analysis identifies that the number of

households in need of affordable housing will increase by 2,596 households in Gateshead and

4,749 households in Newcastle upon Tyne over the period 2015-30, alongside an increase of 4,756

households in Gateshead and 11,389 in Newcastle upon Tyne able to afford market housing.

15. Overall, there will be a need to provide additional affordable housing for 3,235 (2,596 + 639 =

3,235) households (3,277 dwellings) over the period 2015-30 in Gateshead (42.5% of the projected

household growth) and 5,936 (4,749+1,187 = 5,936) households (6,014 dwellings) in Newcastle

upon Tyne (35.9% of the projected household growth). This is equivalent to an average of 216

households per year in Gateshead and 396 households per year in Newcastle upon Tyne. Both of

these figures are the identified need for those who cannot afford market housing in each area.

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However, planning practice guidance and case law are both clear that while all affordable housing

needs should be identified, they may not necessarily have to be provided because delivery may be

constrained by viability and the ability of market housing to support the delivery of affordable

housing. Therefore, the amount of affordable delivered may be different from the identified need.

16. These figures are significantly higher than those set out in the Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

SHMA 2013, but that featured a different definition of affordable housing need and also used a

different model to assess households who require affordable housing.

17. Any losses from the current affordable stock (such as demolition or clearance, or sales through Right

to Buy) would increase the number of affordable dwellings needed by an equivalent amount.

Meanwhile any vacant affordable dwellings returned to use would count as part of the supply

necessary to meet the need for affordable housing. Both of these scenarios are important in

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne with both areas having seen recent demolitions to facilitate

renewals, but also both areas having a number of hard to let properties which are currently vacant.

If these hard to let properties could be brought back in to use, then they can be counted as the

equivalent of new housing delivery in the area.

Need for Older Person Housing

18. The population aged 65 or over is projected to increase by 9,750 persons in Gateshead and 14,200 in

Newcastle upon Tyne between 2015 and 2030.

Figure 5: Population Projections for Gatesheand and Newcastle upon Tyne 2015-30 by 5-year age cohort based SHMA

population projections

Gateshead

2015 2030 Change 2015-2030

Age 65+ 38,548 48,294 9,745

Age 75+ 17,947 24,101 6,153

Age 85+ 4,744 7,110 2,366

Total – all ages 203,098 212,652 9,554

Newcastle upon Tyne

2015 2030 Change 2015-2030

Age 65+ 41,783 55,977 14,194

Age 75+ 19,777 27,572 7,796

Age 85+ 5,880 8,369 2,489

Total – all ages 292,281 322,963 30,682

19. The SHMA has identified that between 2015 and 2030, groups in institutional population is likely to

increase by 414 persons aged 75 years or over in Gateshead and 593 persons in Newcastle upon

Tyne. This increase in institutional population is a consequence of the CLG approach to establishing

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the household population3, which assumes “that the share of the institutional population stays at

2011 levels by age, sex and relationship status for the over 75s” on the basis that “ageing population

will lead to greater level of population aged over 75 in residential care homes”.

20. However, it does not necessarily follow that all of the increase in institutional population should be

provided as additional bedspaces in residential institutions in Use Class C2; some of the specialist

older persons’ housing, including sheltered or “extra care”, may be more appropriate for their

needs, and to maintain independent living. Housing and planning policy in both authorities should

seek to support households to remain in their own homes for longer and therefore, it is possible that

additional nursing and care homes will not be required, at least to the extent of meeting the

additional demand. If that is the case then some or all of the needs of the additional older persons

will need to be factored in to the housing requirements for the area.

21. Whilst an additional 1,007 persons aged 75 or over are predicted to require communal

establishments, these are not counted as part of the OAN, but PPG, March 2014 notes that they

should be counted against the local authority housing requirement. However, an allowance is made

for the dwellings that may be vacated by many of the persons identified4. Not all would vacate

dwellings, as some will have a partner or other family remaining in the home; but further analysis of

the data (assuming no growth in the institutional population) shows that housing need based on the

household projections would be 859 dwellings higher, if the additional bedspaces were not

provided, with 348 more dwellings in Gateshead and 511 more dwellings in Newcastle upon Tyne –

so it is important to take account of these needs.

22. The SHMA identifies that an additional 540 households in Gateshead and 911 in Newcastle upon

Tyne will require wheelchair adapted housing between 2015-2030, with the large majority being

aged 75 or over. Having considered the gross need for wheelchair (category M4(3)) and accessible or

adaptable (category M4(3)) alongside other factors such as the age and relative adaptability of the

existing local housing stock and local policies, the evidence supports a need as shown below:

Figure 6: Meeting the need for M4(2) accessible and M4(3) wheelchair housing

Standard Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

M4(2) - Category 2 accessible housing standard At least 90% of all

dwellings

At least 60% of all

dwellings

M4(3)(a - allow simple adaptation of the dwelling to meet the needs of occupants who

use wheelchairs) wheelchair requirements

Minimum of 6% of

all market housing

Minimum of 4% of

all market housing

M4(3)(b - to meet the needs of occupants who use wheelchairs) wheelchair

requirements

10% of affordable

housing

11% of affordable

housing

All providing this does not compromise viability

23. These figures support the aims and objectives of the “Gateshead Housing Strategy” 2013-18 and the

Newcastle upon Tyne “Older People’s Housing Delivery Plan” 2013-2018.

3 Household Projections 2012-based: Methodological Report, Department for Communities and Local Government, February 2015 4 This is covered in the main body of the report under the heading Older People in Residential Institutions (Use Class

C2)

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Market Signals

24. NPPF sets out that “Plans should take account of market signals…” (paragraph 17) and PPG identifies

that “the housing need number suggested by household projections (the starting point) should be

adjusted to reflect appropriate market signals”.

25. The SHMA has considered the Market Signals for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne and

compared these to other areas which have similar demographic and economic characteristics. On

the basis of this data we can conclude:

House Prices: lower quartile prices are lower than the national average in both Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne, with lower quartile prices of £92,000 and £111,000 respectively

compared to England’s £142,000 (based on 2015-16 prices). The current lower quartile price in

the comparator area Liverpool and Knowsley is lower again at £76,800; the prices in

comparator areas Sheffield and Manchester and Salford are £102,000 and £103,600

respectively; and lower quartile prices in Leeds are higher than both Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne at £115,000. Prices in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne have risen at a similar

rate to most of the comparator areas and the national rate over the past 5 years; however

there was a higher rate of increase in Manchester and Salford (20%) and a small reduction in

lower quartile prices in Liverpool and Knowsley (-2%);

Rents: for average private sector rents in 2015-16, both Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

are lower than the national average, they are however broadly in line with private sector rents

in comparator areas. When we look at the growth in rent over the past 5 years, Newcastle

upon Tyne has a higher rate of growth than the national average (30% compared to growth of

18% in England as a whole) whereas the rate of growth in private sector rents in Gateshead was

less than 1%;

Affordability ratio (in terms of the ratio between lower quartile house prices and lower quartile

earnings) is much lower in both Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne than across England as a

whole (5.0 and 5.8 respectively cf. 7.0). This means for example in Gateshead that lower

quartile house prices are 5 times higher than the salary of a full-time workers whose earnings

are at the lower quartile. Affordability ratios have got marginally “worse” since 2010, with the

ratio in Gateshead increasing from 4.9 to 5.0 and the ratio in Newcastle upon Tyne increasing

from 5.5 to 5.8. This is in line with the equivalent rate for England, where the ratio increased

from 6.7 to 7.0, a change of 5%;

Rate of development (in terms of increase in dwelling stock over the last 10 years) shows that

rate of development in Gateshead has been lower than England (5.7% cf. 8.3%). The rate of

development in Newcastle upon Tyne was lower again at 3.5%. Rates of development were

higher in most of the comparator areas than both Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne with

the rate of change in Manchester and Salford reaching 13.6% over the last 10 years;

Overcrowding (in terms of 2011 Census occupancy rates) 6.2% of households in Gateshead are

assumed to be overcrowded based on an objective measure, which is lower than England

(8.7%). The proportion of overcrowded households in Newcastle upon Tyne was slightly higher

than England (9.1%). The proportion of overcrowded households in Newcastle upon Tyne has

increased over the last 10 years but at a lower rate than England (17% cf. 23%). Overcrowding

has also increased in Gateshead but only marginally (1%). The proportion of overcrowded

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households and rate of increase over the last 10 years was much worse in comparator areas

Manchester and Salford and Sheffield.

26. Given this context, it is apparent that the indicators generally indicate that housing market pressures

in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne are generally comparable to those in similar areas, with

some indicators being a little better and some a little worse. Overall, (and given that many of these

areas show lesser pressures than the national average - in particular the market signals relating to

price), conditions across Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne suggest that the level of Objectively

Assessed Need should not be higher than suggested by household projections.

Conclusions

27. We have calculated Objectively Assessed Need based on demographic projections and assessed

these against Market Signals to determine if a higher rate of housing delivery is necessary to address

housing market problems. This takes account of household growth based on CLG 2014-based

projections (the starting point); adjusts for long-term migration trends; responds to suppressed

household formation (through providing for the growth of concealed families between 2001 and

2011); and takes account of vacant and second homes.

28. Figure 7 summarises each of the stages for establishing the Full Objectively Assessed Need for

Housing.

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Figure 7: Full Objectively Assessed Need for Housing for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne 2015-30

Gateshead Newcastle upon

Tyne Total

Demographic starting point: CLG household

projections 2015-30 6,406 15,047 21,453

Baseline household projections taking account of local

circumstances 7,352 16,138 23,490

Allowance for transactional vacancies and second

homes: based on dwellings without a usually resident

household

230 378 608

Dwellings 7,582 16,516 24,098

Adjustment for suppressed household formation

rates: concealed family growth 2001-11 and homeless

households

258 + 8 = 266 399 + 9 = 408 657 + 17 = 674

Baseline housing need based on demographic

projections 7,848 16,924 24,772

Further adjustments

needed…

In response to balancing

jobs and workers: 0 0 0

In response to market signals

0 0 0

Combined impact of the identified adjustments 0 0 0

Full Objectively Assessed Need for Housing 2015-30 7,848 16,924 24,772

29. Across the two authorities CLG Household Projections suggest a growth of 21,453 households over

the 15-year period 2015-30; however, this is based on short-term migration trends. Demographic

projections based on 10-year migration trends provide a more reliable and appropriate basis for

establishing future housing need. The SHMA has identified an increase of 23,490 households over

the 15-year period 2015-30.

30. The baseline household projections should be increased by 657 households to take account of

concealed families and homeless households that would otherwise not be captured due to

suppressed household formation rates. This adjustment responds to identified un-met need for

affordable housing, and addresses suppressed household formation rates. Any new C2 provision

(residential institutions) does not count as a contribution towards the housing requirement as

population living in this type of provision is outside the OAN assessment.

31. Providing for this increase in households yields a baseline housing need of 24,772 dwellings; with

7,848 in Gateshead and 16,924 in Newcastle upon Tyne. .

32. The evidence from planned jobs and workers identifies that there will be sufficient extra workers for

the forecast increase in jobs, so there is no need to increase housing delivery to provide any

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additional workers. On the basis of the Market Signals evidence, we would not propose an overall

uplift of the housing need identified based on the household projections.

33. Of course, it is important to remember that “establishing future need for housing is not an exact

science” (PPG ID 2a-014). Whilst the OAN must be underwritten by robust evidence that is based on

detailed analysis and informed by reasonable assumptions, the final conclusions should reflect the

overall scale of the housing needed in the housing market area without seeking to be spuriously

precise.

34. The SHMA therefore identifies the Full Objective Assessed Need for Housing in Gateshead to be

7,848 dwellings over the 15-year period 2015-30, equivalent to an average of 523 dwellings per

year. This includes the Objectively Assessed Need of Affordable Housing for 3,277 dwellings over

the same period, equivalent to an average of 218 per year.

35. The SHMA also identifies the Full Objective Assessed Need for Housing in Newcastle upon Tyne to

be 16,924 dwellings over the 15-year period 2015-30, equivalent to an average of 1,128 dwellings

per year. This includes the Objectively Assessed Need of Affordable Housing for 5,936 dwellings

over the same period, equivalent to an average of 396 per year.

36. Importantly, these OAN figures are extremely close to those set out in the Joint Core Strategy for the

period 2015-30 which show an annual need for Gateshead over the period 2015-30 of 535 dwellings

per annum and 1,040 dwellings per annum for Newcastle upon Tyne for the same period. Therefore,

it would seem to be appropriate to continue with the Joint Core Strategy housing target figures.

37. We would note that paragraph 29 of PPG proposes that:

‘An increase in the total housing figures included in the local plan should be considered

where it could help deliver the required number of affordable homes.’

38. While the guidance is clear that an uplift should be considered, it is also clear that this is not

necessarily required. In areas such as Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne the relatively low level of

viability for affordable housing implies that an uplift is unlikely to deliver significant additional,

amounts of affordable housing. It should also be remembered that the Housing White Paper, “Fixing

our broken housing market’ published in February 2017 indicates that up to 10% of all larger sites

should be affordable home ownership dwellings. This implies that an increase in total dwelling

delivery would first deliver more affordable home to buy, rather than those to rent which are

required to meet the identified need.

39. We would also note that the Housing White Paper proposed that there would be a future

consultation on a new standardised methodology for undertaking OAN calculations. This is

scheduled for consultation in September 2017 and to be in place by April 2018. The impact of this

methodology for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne is currently unknown, and the government

have indicated that there will be flexibility in its application.

Nationally Described Space Standards

40. This report includes an assessment of the compliance with the Nationally Described Space Standards

(NDSS) in Gateshead and Newcastle. A summary is shown below:

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Figure 8: Compliance with the 2015 Nationally Described Space Standards (NDSS) for Gross Internal Area (GIA)

Compliance with the 2015 Nationally Described Space Standards (NDSS) for Gross Internal Area (GIA)

Evidence

Gateshead An Analysis of Space Standards in Gateshead in January 2016

Newcastle upon Tyne Analysis of completions over previous two years August 2017

Conclusions

The two studies support each other in general conclusions: Evidence behind the conclusions:

A third of house types assessed failed to meet the space

standards

36% of house types in the Gateshead study failed to meet the NDSS,

the majority (64%) of 2, 3 and 4- bedroom properties in the

Newcastle upon Tyne analysis failed to meet the standard

There is some evidence that mid-sized house types, notably 3-

bedrooms are more likely to fail to meet space standards than

1 bedroom or larger house types

27% of 3-bedroom properties failed to meet the standard in the

Newcastle upon Tyne analysis compared to 56% of 1-bedroom

properties and 47% of 4-bedroom properties

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1. Introducing the Study Background to the project and wider policy context

1.1 Opinion Research Services (ORS) was commissioned by Gateshead Council and Newcastle upon Tyne

City Council to undertake a Strategic Housing Market Assessment to establish the Objectively Assessed

Need for housing.

1.2 The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) sets out government's planning policies for England

and how these are expected to be applied. The Framework acts as guidance for local planning

authorities and decision-takers, both in drawing up plans and making decisions about planning

applications.

1.3 Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) on the assessment of housing and economic development needs was

published in March 2014. Previous SHMA Guidance (2007) and related documents were rescinded at

that time, so the approach taken in preparation of this report is focused on meeting the requirements

of the NPPF and PPG and therefore, many aspects of the previous SHMA required replacing.

1.4 The study methodology was also mindful of Planning Inspector Decisions and High Court Judgements,

as well as emerging good practice including the technical advice note about Objectively Assessed Need

(OAN) and Housing Targets Second Edition published by the Planning Advisory Service (PAS) in July

20155.

Government Policy 1.5 The NPPF has at its heart a presumption in favour of sustainable development, and states that Local

Plans should meet the full, objectively assessed needs for market and affordable housing in the

housing market area. Given that Regional Spatial Strategies are now revoked, the responsibility for

establishing the level of future housing provision required rests with the local planning authority.

“At the heart of the National Planning Policy Framework is a presumption in favour of sustainable

development, which should be seen as a golden thread running through both plan-making and

decision-taking.

Local planning authorities should positively seek opportunities to meet the development needs of

their area.

Local Plans should meet objectively assessed needs, with sufficient flexibility to adapt to rapid

change, unless any adverse impacts of doing so would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the

benefits, when assessed against the policies in this Framework taken as a whole.”

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), paragraph 14

5 Objectively Assessed Need and Housing Targets Second Version (PAS, July 2015)

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“To boost significantly the supply of housing, local planning authorities should use their evidence

base to ensure that their Local Plan meets the full, objectively assessed needs for market and

affordable housing in the housing market area.”

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), paragraph 47

1.6 Given this context, the key objective is to provide the robust and strategic evidence base required to

establish the Objectively Assessed Need (OAN) for housing in the Housing Market Area (HMA) and

provide information on the appropriate mix of housing and range of tenures needed.

“Local planning authorities should have a clear understanding of housing needs in their area.

They should prepare a Strategic Housing Market Assessment to assess their full housing needs,

working with neighbouring authorities where housing market areas cross administrative boundaries.

The Strategic Housing Market Assessment should identify the scale and mix of housing and the

range of tenures that the local population is likely to need over the plan period which:

» meets household and population projections, taking account of migration and demographic

change;

» addresses the need for all types of housing, including affordable housing and the needs of

different groups in the community (such as, but not limited to, families with children, older

people, people with disabilities, service families and people wishing to build their own homes);

and

» caters for housing demand and the scale of housing supply necessary to meet this demand;”

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), paragraph 159

1.7 Modelling future housing need requires a consideration of the housing market from a high-level,

strategic perspective; in this way an understanding of how key drivers and long-term trends impact on

the structure of households and population over the full planning period can be delivered.

1.8 The objective of this study was to establish the OAN for housing (both market and affordable),

ensuring that this was fully compliant with the requirements of the NPPF and PPG. Using secondary

data, this study sought to:

» Identify the housing market area covering Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne;

» Provide evidence of the need and demand for housing based on demographic projections;

» Consider market signals about the balance between demand for and supply of dwellings;

» Establish the Objectively Assessed Need for housing;

» Identify the appropriate balance between market and affordable housing; and

» Address the needs for a range of specific household types.

1.9 It is important to recognise that the information from this document should not be considered in

isolation, but forms part of a wider evidence base to inform the development of housing and planning

policies. This document does not seek to determine rigid policy conclusions, but instead provides a

key component of the evidence base required to develop and support a sound policy framework.

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Duty to Co-operate 1.10 The Duty to Co-operate was introduced in the 2011 Localism Act and is a legal obligation.

1.11 The NPPF sets out an expectation that public bodies will co-operate with others on issues with any

cross-boundary impact, in particular in relation to strategic priorities such as “the homes and jobs

needed in the area”.

“Public bodies have a duty to cooperate on planning issues that cross administrative boundaries,

particularly those which relate to the strategic priorities set out in paragraph 156. The Government

expects joint working on areas of common interest to be diligently undertaken for the mutual

benefit of neighbouring authorities.

Local planning authorities should work collaboratively with other bodies to ensure that strategic

priorities across local boundaries are properly coordinated and clearly reflected in individual Local

Plans. Joint working should enable local planning authorities to work together to meet development

requirements which cannot wholly be met within their own areas – for instance, because of a lack of

physical capacity or because to do so would cause significant harm to the principles and policies of

this Framework. As part of this process, they should consider producing joint planning policies on

strategic matters and informal strategies such as joint infrastructure and investment plans.”

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), paragraphs 178-179

1.12 How councils have complied with their legal requirements under the Duty to Co-operate will be

considered when plans are submitted for examination. One key issue is how any unmet development

and infrastructure requirements can be provided by co-operating with adjoining authorities (subject to

tests of reasonableness and sustainability). The NPPF sets out that co-operation should be “a

continuous process of engagement” from “thinking through to implementation”.

“Local planning authorities will be expected to demonstrate evidence of having effectively

cooperated to plan for issues with cross-boundary impacts when their Local Plans are submitted for

examination. This could be by way of plans or policies prepared as part of a joint committee, a

memorandum of understanding or a jointly prepared strategy which is presented as evidence of an

agreed position. Cooperation should be a continuous process of engagement from initial thinking

through to implementation, resulting in a final position where plans are in place to provide the land

and infrastructure necessary to support current and projected future levels of development.”

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), paragraph 181

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint Core Strategy 2010-2030 1.13 The Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint Core Strategy was adopted in March 2015 and this

SHMA can be seen as a review and update of the evidence base which underwrote this document. The

Joint Core Strategy includes a provision for 30,000 more homes, 22,000 more jobs and also a need for

15% of all new homes to be affordable housing on qualifying sites.

1.14 The Joint Core Strategy was based upon evidence produced in 2013 or earlier, although relevant

evidence and guidance that was made available by or during the examination of the Core Strategy in

2014 was considered. In March 2014, the government produced new guidance on conducting housing

needs assessments in the form of ‘Guidance for Housing and Economic Development Needs

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Assessments’. Paragraphs 2-21 of this new guidance cover overall housing needs and paragraph 22-29

covers affordable housing needs. The new guidance includes a number of significant changes since the

2007 SHMA Practice Guidance which underwrote much of the work leading to the Joint Core Strategy.

1.15 This study should also be seen in the context of the wider situation in the North East of England. At

the time of writing, North Tyneside Council have adopted their Local Plan. Northumberland County

Council has withdrawn their local Plan from examination, while Sunderland City Council has published

their Core Strategy. Durham County Council and South Tyneside Council are developing their Local

Plans for publication.

Housing White Paper 1.16 We would also note that the Housing White Paper, “Fixing our broken housing market’ was published

in February 2017. One change flagged in the White Paper is a change in definition for affordable

housing to include Starter Homes at 20% discounts of market prices and also Build to Rent with rents

to remain at 20% below market prices. Build to rent does not affect the need for affordable homes

because the rents would be similar to Affordable Rents, just on the private sector not with a registered

provider

1.17 However, the inclusion of Starter Homes in a wider definition of affordable housing will require a

fundamental revision of who is considered to be in affordable housing need because the current

definition is based upon who can afford market housing including private rent as well as owner

occupied housing. Therefore, if the Government proceed to include Starter Homes in the definition of

affordable housing products, they will also need to count many more households as being in

affordable housing need than is currently the case because all non-owning households who wish to

purchase Starter Homes will need to be included.

1.18 On this basis, this study should be seen as sitting between two points in time in terms of the modelling

of affordable housing need. Past studies, including the Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne SHMA

2013 have applied very strict affordability test to assess who requires affordable housing, while this

study applies the much looser definition currently in force. However, it is likely that by April 2018

many more households which are not currently counted as being in affordable housing need will be

added to the figures because of the move to include Starter Homers in the definition of affordable

housing products.

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2. Defining the Housing Market Area

An evidence base to identify functional housing markets

2.1 The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) refers to Local Plans meeting the “full objectively

assessed needs for market and affordable housing in the housing market area” (paragraph 47,

emphasis added). The identification of the Housing Market Area (HMA) is therefore the first relevant

building block in the evidence for identifying objectively assessed needs for the study.

2.2 This Chapter considers the historic and current evidence about housing market areas relating to

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Functional Housing Market Areas 2.3 The definition of a functional housing market area is well-established as being “...the geographical area

in which a substantial majority of the employed population both live and work and where those

moving house without changing employment choose to stay” (Maclennan et al, 1998)6.

Planning Practice Guidance 2.4 Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) on the Assessment of Housing and Economic Development Needs

(March 2014) reflects this existing concept, confirming that the underlying principles for defining

housing markets are concerned with the functional areas in which people both live and work:

What is a housing market area?

A housing market area is a geographical area defined by household demand and preferences for all

types of housing, reflecting the key functional linkages between places where people live and work.

It might be the case the housing market areas overlap. The extent of the housing market areas

identified will vary, and many will in practice cut across various local planning authority

administrative boundaries. Local planning authorities should work with all the other constituent

authorities under the duty to cooperate.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-010

2.5 Therefore, PPG requires an understanding of the housing market area and says this can be defined

using three different sources of information:

» House prices and rates of change in house prices

» Household migration and search patterns

» Contextual data (e.g. travel to work area boundaries, retail and school catchment areas)

6 Local Housing Systems Analysis: Best Practice Guide. Edinburgh: Scottish Homes

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2.6 These sources are well-established, being consistent with those previously identified in the CLG advice

note “Identifying sub-regional housing market areas” published in 20077. We would note that retail

catchment area is predominately used for economic market area, rather than housing market areas,

while school catchment areas are used to consider more localised housing markets. Therefore they

are not included in this study.

Geography of Housing Market Areas (NHPAU/CURDS) 2.7 CLG also published a report on the ‘Geography of Housing Market Areas’ in 20108 which was

commissioned by the former National Housing and Planning Advice Unit (NHPAU) and undertaken by

the Centre for Urban and Regional Development Studies (CURDS) at Newcastle upon Tyne University.

This study explored a range of potential methods for calculating housing market areas for England and

applied these methods to the whole country to show the range of housing markets which would be

generated. The report also proposed three overlapping tiers of geography for housing markets:

» Tier 1: framework housing market areas defined by long distance commuting flows and the

long-term spatial framework within which housing markets operate;

» Tier 2: local housing market areas defined by migration patterns that determine the limits of

short term spatial house price arbitrage: i.e. households moving without changing jobs;

» Tier 3: sub-markets defined in terms of neighbourhoods or house type price premiums.

2.8 The report recognised that migration patterns and commuting flows were the most relevant

information sources for identifying the upper tier housing market areas, with house prices only

becoming relevant at a more local level and when establishing housing sub-markets. The report also

outlined that no one single approach (nor one single data source) will provide a definitive solution to

identifying local housing markets; but by using a range of available data, judgements on appropriate

geography can be made.

2.9 Advice published in the Planning Advisory Service (PAS) technical advice note about Objectively

Assessed Need (OAN) and Housing Targets (originally published in June 2014, with a second edition9 in

July 2015) also suggests that the main indicators will be migration and commuting (second edition,

paragraph 5.4).

“The PPG provides a long list of possible indicators, comprising house prices, migration and

search patterns and contextual data including travel-to-work areas, retail and school

catchments. In practice, the main indicators used are migration and commuting.”

The PAS OAN technical advice note also suggests that analysis reported in the CLG report

“Geography of Housing Market Areas” (CLG, November 2010) should provide a starting point

for drawing HMAs (Figure 9).

2.10 Figure 9 shows the local authority boundary (in black) with Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

shaded blue. It compares these with the CURDS study (in green) to consider their alignment. It is

apparent that the CURDS study concluded that Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne are part of a

larger HMA which also covers North Tyneside and South Tyneside to the east, along with

7 Identifying sub-regional housing market areas (CLG, March 2007); paragraph 1.6 8 Geography of Housing Market Areas (CLG, November 2010) 9 http://www.pas.gov.uk/documents/332612/6549918/OANupdatedadvicenote/f1bfb748-11fc-4d93-834c-a32c0d2c984d

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Northumberland to the north and west, and part of County Durham to the south. A separate

Sunderland HMA lies adjacent to the south east which includes the eastern part of County Durham.

Figure 9: NHPAU Study – PAS OAN technical advice note ‘Starting Point’ (Source: NHPAU/CURDS 2010)

ONS Travel to Work Areas 2.11 PPG defines housing market areas on the basis that they will reflect “the key functional linkages

between places where people live and work” (ID 2a-010). Furthermore, PPG identifies Office for

National Statistics Travel to Work Areas (TTWAs) as one of the identified data sources that should be

considered when establishing housing market areas.

Travel to work areas can provide information about commuting flows and the spatial structure of

the labour market, which will influence household price and location. They can also provide

information about the areas within which people move without changing other aspects of their lives

(e.g. work or service use).

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-011

2.12 The Office for National Statistics (ONS) defines official Travel to Work Areas for those involved in

labour market analysis and planning. These areas are also based on analysis of Census commuting

flow data, and TTWAs based on data from the 2011 Census were published in August 2015. A total of

228 TTWAs were defined for the whole of the UK based on 2011 data, a reduction from the 243

TTWAs that were previously defined based on 2001 Census data.

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2.13 Figure 10 shows the defined TTWAs (2015), in blue, and these are based on the commuting flow data

from the 2011 Census.

Figure 10: ONS Travel To Work Areas (Source: ONS 2015)

2.14 Though smaller than the NHPAU Study HMA, once again, the TTWA including Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne extends to the east to include North Tyneside and part of South Tyneside, along

with parts of Northumberland to the north and west, and part of County Durham to the south. The

remainder of South Tyneside is in a separate TTWA to the south east with Sunderland and the eastern

part of County Durham.

House Prices 2.15 As noted earlier, PPG also suggests that house prices should be considered in identifying the HMA for

an area. However, PAS OAN Technical Note suggests that migration and commuting should be

considered as being more important.

2.16 Figure 11 shows house prices across the study area and its neighbouring local authorities in quintiles,

so 20% of all properties sold fall in to each colour band. Areas in dark green have the lowest house

price and those in bright red have the highest prices.

2.17 For an area to be considered to be a HMA there would typically be a range of property types and

values across the area to allow all types of households with different levels of affordability to be able

to live in the area. The map shows large variations in house prices within each of the local authorities.

Therefore, an analysis of house prices does not help to simplify the process of identifying HMAs across

the wider North East.

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Figure 11: House Prices 2016-17 (Source: Land Registry)

Valuation Office Agency Broad Rental Market Areas 2.18 The Broad Rental Market Area (BRMA) is the geographical area used by the Valuation Office Agency

(VOA) to determine the Local Housing Allowance rate (LHA), the allowance paid to Housing Benefit

applicants. The BRMA area is based on an area where a person could reasonably be expected to live

taking into account access to facilities and services for the purposes of health, education, recreation,

personal banking and shopping.

2.19 When determining BRMAs the Rent Officer takes account of the distance of travel, by public and

private transport, to and from these facilities and services. The boundaries of a BRMA do not have to

match the boundaries of a local authority and BRMAs will often fall across more than one local

authority area. Therefore BRMAs are areas within which it would be reasonable to expect a household

needing local housing allowance support to move to another settlement within the area in order to

find suitable housing.

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The BRMA areas for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne, and surrounding areas are shown, in red, in

Figure 12. It is evident that they again fall into one BRMA with North Tyneside, part of South Tyneside

and a large rural area in Northumberland to the west and north west. Again, the south part of South

Tyneside is in a separate BRMA with Sunderland and the eastern part of County Durham. The

remainder of County Durham is in a separate BRMA to the south, centred around Durham and Bishop

Auckland.

Figure 12: VOA Broad Rental Market Area Boundaries

Administrative Boundaries and Housing Market Areas 2.20 The NPPF recognises that housing market areas may cross administrative boundaries, and PPG

emphasises that housing market areas reflect functional linkages between places where people live

and work. The previous 2007 CLG advice note10 also established that functional housing market areas

should not be constrained by administrative boundaries, nevertheless it suggested the need for a

“best fit” approximation to local authority areas for developing evidence and policy (paragraph 9):

“The extent of sub-regional functional housing market areas identified will vary and many

will in practice cut across local authority administrative boundaries. For these reasons,

regions and local authorities will want to consider, for the purposes of developing evidence

bases and policy, using a pragmatic approach that groups local authority administrative

areas together as an approximation for functional sub-regional housing market areas.”

2.21 This “best fit” approximation has also been suggested by the PAS OAN technical advice note, which

suggests (second edition, paragraph 5.9):

10

Identifying sub-regional housing market areas (CLG, March 2007)

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“boundaries that straddle local authority areas are usually impractical, given that planning

policy is mostly made at the local authority level, and many kinds of data are unavailable for

smaller areas.”

2.22 This means there is a need for balance in methodological approach:

» On the one hand, it is important that the process of analysis and identification of the functional

housing market areas should not be constrained by local authority boundaries. This allows the

full extent of each functional housing market to be properly understood and ensures that all of the

constituent local planning authorities can work together under the duty to cooperate, as set out in

Guidance (PPG, ID 2a-010).

On the other hand, and as suggested by the PAS OAN technical advice note (and the previous

CLG advice note), it is also necessary to identify a “best fit” for each functional housing

market area that is based on local planning authority boundaries. This “best fit” area

provides an appropriate basis for analysing evidence and drafting policy, and would normally

represent the group of authorities that would take responsibility for undertaking a Strategic

Housing Market Assessment.

2.23 In summary, therefore, the approach to defining housing market areas needs to balance robust

analysis with pragmatic administrative requirements.

2.24 Based on the range of analysis that we have considered, it is evident that the geography of housing

market areas around Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne is complex. There are important functional

relationships with North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Northumberland and County Durham, so it is

relevant to note that PPG recognises that “it might be the case that housing market areas overlap”

(paragraph 10). The three national mapped sources (NHPAU/CURDS Study, VOA BRMAs), used in

defining HMAs, all indicate Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne to be in a HMA with North Tyneside.

The NHPAU Study HMA indicates Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne to be in a HMA with South

Tyneside and Northumberland. The ONS Travel to Work Areas indicate Gateshead and Newcastle upon

Tyne to be in a HMA with parts of South Tyneside, Northumberland and County Durham, while the

VOA BRMAs indicate Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne to be in a HMA with parts of South Tyneside

and Northumberland.

2.25 Given the evidence from the three national mapped sources, it is necessary to assess whether

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne can be considered as a separate lower-level HMA. Several recent

studies have concluded that local authorities surrounding Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne can be

considered as self-contained HMAs, based on commuting and migration patterns, but that North

Tyneside could be considered to be in an HMA with Newcastle upon Tyne. Considering Duty to

Cooperate, the studies indicate that the main partner authorities for Gateshead and Newcastle upon

Tyne are North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Northumberland and Durham. Analyses of Travel to Work

data indicates a functional economic area that includes Sunderland with and Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne.

2.26 The Northumberland SHMA, 2015 (Arc4) concludes that Northumberland can be considered as a

separate HMA for Local Plan purposes, but that Duty to Cooperate lead to the need for partnership

with North Tyneside, Newcastle upon Tyne, Gateshead and Durham along with other non-Tyneside

authorities:

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“Northumberland can be described as a largely self-contained housing market on the basis of

migration and travel to work patterns, with both suggesting that just under 70% of moves take

place within Northumberland. Additionally, 74.6% of households planning to move in the three

years 2012-2015 were planning to move within Northumberland. The SHMA also acknowledges the

relationship between Northumberland and neighbouring areas, in particular North Tyneside,

Newcastle upon Tyne, Gateshead, Durham, Carlisle and the Scottish Borders. Overall however,

Northumberland is considered to be a self-contained Market Area for the purposes of Local Plan

policy making.”

(Page 10)

2.27 The County Durham Issues and Options Stage SHMA (Part 1) 2016 (Arc4) concludes that County

Durham can be considered a separate HMA for Local Plan purposes:

“… County Durham can be described as a self-contained housing market on the basis of migration patterns and similarly travel to work patterns indicate that the majority of economically active residents live and work in County Durham. Evidence would therefore confirm that County Durham is an appropriate Housing Market Area for the purposes of Local Plan policy making.”

(Page 8)

2.28 However, the County Durham SHMA 2012 (Arc4) reports the HMA analysis in more detail and

concludes that, while on balance County Durham can be described as a separate HMA, the County

could also be considered as part of a larger functional market:

“The Department of Communities and Local Government (CLG) suggests that a housing market is

self-contained if upwards of 70% of moves (migration and travel to work) take place within a

defined area. An analysis of migration data indicates that 77.3% of households moving originated

within County Durham, suggesting that the County is a self-contained housing market area. That

said, there are areas which exhibit strong migration interactions with other localities (for instance

North and East Durham with Tyne and Wear and South Durham with Tees Valley). On balance,

County Durham can be described as a self contained delivery area in terms of migration, with some

areas exhibiting strong interactions with other areas. In terms of travel to work, County Durham is

part of a broader functional market which extends into Tyne and Wear and Tees Valley.”

(Page 7)

2.29 The North Tyneside SHMA, 2014 (Arc4) concludes that, migration within North Tyneside and Newcastle

upon Tyne City defines the two authorities as being in the same HMA:

“An analysis of 2011 Census migration data suggests that 64.7% of households who moved in the

year preceding the census originated from within North Tyneside and 48% of resident employees

live and work in North Tyneside. Former Government guidance suggested that housing markets are

self-contained if at least 70% of moves take place within the area.

On this basis, North Tyneside is not a self-contained housing market area but is part of a wider

housing market area extending into Newcastle upon Tyne and Northumberland. If moves between

North Tyneside and Newcastle upon Tyne are included, self-containment increases to 77.4%

(migration) and 73.8% (workplace); and if Northumberland moves are included self-containment

reaches 83.3% (migration) and 80.3% (workplace). The interactions between the three districts are

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well-recognised and under the Duty to Co-operate the three authorities regularly meet to discuss

cross-boundary matters.”

(Page 8)

2.30 The South Tyneside SHMA update, 2015 (South Tyneside Council) states that:

“The vast majority of the moving households are within migration and hence the borough is

considered to contain one housing market.”

(Paragraph 3.1)

2.31 The South Tyneside SHMA, 2013 (Arc4) considers the migration and other data in detail and concludes

that South Tyneside can be seen as a separate HMA when considering migration alone, but part of a

larger HMA including Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne, along with Sunderland, when travel to

work is considered:

“The Department for Communities and Local Government suggests that a housing market is self-contained if upwards of 70% of moves (migration and travel to work) take place within a defined area. An analysis of migration data suggests that 77.9% of households move within the South Tyneside area and 51.2% work within the South Tyneside area. Therefore, South Tyneside is a self contained housing market area in terms of migration but part of a wider functional housing market area which extends into Sunderland, Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead in terms of travel to work.”

(Paragraph 3.31)

2.32 The Sunderland SHMA update, 2016 (Arc4) concludes that Sunderland Local Authority Area can be

considered an HMA for the purposes of the Local Plan, while the functional economic containing

Sunderland extends to Tyneside:

“Therefore, Sunderland exhibits a high degree of self-containment in terms of migration but it is

part of wider functional economic area which extends across Tyne and Wear and into County

Durham and Northumberland.

… Evidence would therefore suggest that the Sunderland Local Authority Area can be considered to

be an appropriate Housing Market Area for the purposes of Local Plan policy making.”

(Page 47)

Key Statistics for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne HMA

Migration within the UK to and from Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne 2.33 PPG identifies that a “relatively high proportion of household moves” will be contained within a

housing market area, and suggests that this will be “typically 70%” or more; however this “excludes

long-distance moves” (ID 2a-011).

2.34 As the PAS OAN technical advice note confirms, “what counts as a long-distance move is a matter of

judgment” (second edition, paragraph 5.16). Data from the English Housing Survey 2013-14 household

report11 (figure 6.4) shows that over 7 in every 8 moves in the UK involved distances of less than 50

11 https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/english-housing-survey-2013-to-2014-household-report

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miles, with almost 5 in every 6 involving distances of less than 20 miles. It would therefore seem

appropriate for long-distance moves to include all moves of at least 50 miles, and for moves of 20

miles or more to also be considered.

2.35 The concept of excluding “long-distance moves” relates back to the early definition of a functional

housing market area that was set out at the start of this chapter. That definition focused on “those

moving house without changing employment”, and long-distance moves will generally involve a

change of job or other change of lifestyle (such as retirement). On balance, it seems unlikely that

many people would move more than 20 miles in this part of the country without a change of job; so it

would seem reasonable to consider moves of over 20 miles as being “long-distance” in the context of

this specific area.

2.36 Figure 13 shows the proportion of moves that remained within each local authority in the 12 months

prior to the Census.

2.37 The first column shows that of all moves into the local authority, the proportion of households that

were already living in the same local authority before moving. According to this measure, in each of

the three authorities of Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne and North Tyneside, the proportion of

moves contained within the authority did not reach the 70% recommended by PPG. The orange colour

of the cells denotes that the proportions approached, but did not reach the target figure.

2.38 The second column shows that of all moves by households who were already living in the local

authority before moving, the proportion that moved to another property within the same authority.

According to this measure, Newcastle upon Tyne (at 68.5%) is close to the recommended 70%, but

neither Gateshead nor North Tyneside alone reach the threshold.

2.39 The migration data indicates that none of the three authorities of Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne

and North Tyneside can be considered to be self-contained. In contrast, on both measures, the

surrounding authorities each show self-containment above 70%, as shown by the green coloured cells.

2.40 The definition for a Housing Market Area sets out that it is the area “where most of those changing

house without changing employment choose to stay”. Unfortunately, no data is available that relates

migration with changes in employment circumstances; but given that most working people will live

relatively close to their job, it is reasonable to assume that those migrants moving longer distances will

tend to also change their place of work.

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Figure 13: Previous Area of Residence (12 months prior to Census) by Current Area of Residence (Source: 2011 Census of

Population)

Moves to the LA which originated within the LA

Moves from the LA to another property within the LA

Gateshead 64.0% 65.6%

Newcastle upon Tyne 64.3% 68.5%

North Tyneside 65.9% 66.4%

Northumberland 71.7% 71.9%

South Tyneside 76.3% 75.3%

Sunderland 77.5% 75.6%

County Durham 72.8% 74.6%

Travel to Work Patterns 2.41 Whilst housing market areas are defined predominantly in terms of the areas “where most of those

changing house without changing employment choose to stay”, it is also relevant to consider them in

the context of “...the geographical area in which a substantial majority of the employed population

both live and work”. It is therefore important to consider the extent to which the resident population

work in the area and the workplace population live in the area.

2.42 The ONS use a 75.0% target for self-containment within Travel To Work areas, but it is worth noting

that their threshold is 66.7% (for areas that have a working population in excess of 25,000 workers)

and this provides a useful framework. Figure 14 shows the proportions of residents who live and work

in each local authority.

2.43 The first column in Figure 14 shows the proportion of those who work in each local authority who are

residents of the same local authority. Of the three authorities, Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

fall considerably short of the threshold with 53.4% and 47.3% respectively of workers being residents,

while North Tyneside approaches but does not meet the threshold with 61.6% of workers being also

being residents.

2.44 The second column shows the proportion of working residents of each local authority who also work in

the same authority. Of the three authorities, Gateshead approaches but does meet the threshold with

53.6%, Newcastle upon Tyne exceeds the threshold with 67.4% and North Tyneside falls considerably

short of the threshold, with 54.3% of working residents who work in the area.

2.45 The Travel to Work data indicates that none of the three authorities of Gateshead, Newcastle upon

Tyne and North Tyneside can be considered to be self-contained. In contrast, again, it can be seen that

all but one of the neighbouring local authorities exceed the threshold of 66.7% on both measures and

most exceed the target of 75.0%. The exception is South Tyneside which has only 56.1% of working

residents who work in the local authority area.

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Figure 14: Workplace Location by Area of Residence (Source: 2011 Census of Population)

Of those who work in the area, also reside in the area

Of those who reside in the area, also work in the area

Gateshead 53.4% 53.6%

Newcastle upon Tyne 47.3% 67.4%

North Tyneside 61.6% 54.3%

Northumberland 82.1% 70.0%

South Tyneside 71.6% 56.1%

Sunderland 67.7% 70.6%

County Durham 82.3% 71.3%

Containment within the Combined Area 2.46 Figure 15 shows the migration and travel to work patterns for the combined area of Gateshead,

Newcastle upon Tyne and North Tyneside.

2.47 The levels of self-containment in the combined area are considerably higher than for the individual

local authorities and all well above 70% migration target and the 67% ONS threshold for Travel to

Work Areas, i.e. those who live and work in the area. Overall, the table shows that 73.5% of those

who work in the combined area also live in the area and 83.0% of working people who live in the

combined area also work in the area. Considering the migration data; 74.2% of those who moved to

the area previously lived in the area and 77.5% of previous residents of the area who moved stayed in

the area.

Figure 15: Migration and Workplace Location by Area of Residence for the combined area (Source: 2011 Census of Population)

Combined area Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne

and North Tyneside

Migration – of those who Moved into the Area, previously live in the area 74.2%

Migration – of those who Moved from the Area, remained in the area 77.5%

Travel to Work – of those who Work in the Area, those who also live in the area 73.5%

Travel to Work – of those who Reside in the Area, those who also work in the area 83.0%

Conclusions 2.48 The CURDS HMA analysis, ONS Travel to Work Areas and BRMAs all indicate that Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne are contained within an HMA, but that Newcastle upon Tyne and North Tyneside

are also part of a HMA. This area may also include all or part of South Tyneside, and all or part of

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Northumberland. The ONS Travel to Work Areas includes the northern part of Durham in the HMA.

There is no indication of a significant housing market connection to Sunderland.

2.49 The migration and commuting data demonstrate self-containment in the combined area of Gateshead

and Newcastle upon Tyne and also in the area of North Tyneside and Newcastle upon Tyne which

exceeds the migration and travel to work targets for self-containment. This implies that Gateshead,

Newcastle upon Tyne and North Tyneside fall within one HMA, despite relatively weak connections

between Gateshead and North Tyneside.

2.50 The same data for each of the neighbouring local authorities also exceeds the migration and travel to

work targets for self-containment. The most recent SHMAs carried out for neighbouring local

authorities have concluded that it is justifiable for each of Durham, Northumberland, South Tyneside

and Sunderland to be considered as separate stand-alone HMAs for Local Plan policy purposes. While

there are some indications of an economic connection between Sunderland and Tyneside, this is not

reflected in a connection between the Sunderland and Tyneside authorities HMAs. The most recent

SHMA for North Tyneside concludes that North Tyneside is contained within an HMA which also

contains Newcastle upon Tyne.

2.51 In conclusion, the three authorities of Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne and North Tyneside can be

considered to be contained within a single HMA centred on Newcastle upon Tyne, as shown in Figure

16, although the connections between Gateshead and North Tyneside are relatively weak.

Figure 16: Map of the HMA Area

2.52 In practical terms, OAN assessments do not necessarily have to be undertaken together. This

conclusion is supported by the fact that OANs have been produced for North Tyneside, South

Tyneside, Northumberland and Durham.

2.53 On this point though, the North Tyneside Local Plan has been through Examination in Public and was

adopted on 20th July 2017. An advisory note from the Inspector states from paragraphs 2-8 that

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2. I am satisfied that for the purposes of this Local Plan, North Tyneside is an appropriate Housing

Market Area (HMA). However, there are notable functional interactions with neighbouring districts,

especially Newcastle upon Tyne City, to which regard must be given.

3. It is appropriate that the starting point for the FOAN is the latest 2014-based CLG household

projections which set out a base requirement of 707 dwellings per annum.

4. In accordance with the PPG1 an adjustment should be made to this base figure to reflect the PG-

10yr alternative trend scenario to take account of particular long-term migration trends in the wider

area. However, this should be tempered to reflect the establishing wider strategy to manage,

amongst other things, sustainable commuting patterns. Accordingly, I would advise that the

demographic baseline be adjusted to 727 dwellings per annum on this basis.

5. I am satisfied that no further adjustment is required to take account of employment trends having

regard to the evidence on jobs-led scenarios and sensitivities. In my view, 727 dwellings per annum

would, in itself, be sufficient to support the aspirational but realistic average annual jobs growth

anticipated in the Borough.

6. At this stage I would advise the commuting ratio assumption in the SENS3 medium jobs-led

scenario to be reasonable. I am not presently persuaded that it would suppress the economic growth

strategy of the Plan. Furthermore, it is arguable that any upward adjustments of the demographic

OAN for local trends, and affordability, would reasonably ensure an appropriate, proportionate and

deliverable level of dwelling growth that would support local economic growth.

7. Having regard to the PPG2 I would advise that the planned supply of housing should be increased

by an amount expected to improve affordability given the evidence on House Price Ratios and Rental

Affordability Ratios.

8. The parties have generally accepted the 10% LPEG figure, but my advice is that the LPEG report is

neither policy nor guidance. In my view 10% should be regarded as a maximum figure and a lower %

over the Plan period3 may well be reasonable which would point to a FOAN of no more than 790.

2.54 Therefore, North Tyneside have an adopted Local Plan which is based upon a relatively high rate of

growth. On this basis we consider that it appropriate to conduct this study on behalf of Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne alone without seeking to calculate needs for North Tyneside. The North

Tyneside Core Strategy seeks to accommodate North Tyneside’s OAN in full within their borough

boundary. Therefore, they are not seeking for either Gateshead or Newcastle upon Tyne to

accommodate any of North Tyneside’s housing needs. On this basis, separate figures have been

produced for each of the Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne rather than a single set of figures for

the HMA which includes Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne and North Tyneside.

2.55 In respect of producing a OAN for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne:

» The evidence points to Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne and North Tyneside being a

single HMA, despite the connections between Gateshead and North Tyneside being

relatively weak.

» The NPPF requires that local planning authorities should ensure that the full OAN for their

HMA is delivered, not that the whole HMA has to be covered by a single housing market

assessment. Local authorities should; “use their evidence base to ensure that their Local

Plan meets the full, objectively assessed needs for market and affordable housing in the

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housing market area…” (paragraph 47), and; “Public bodies have a duty to cooperate on

planning issues that cross administrative boundaries.” (paragraph 178).

» The three authorities of Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne each have an OAN produced

within the previous 5 years and therefore all needs within a notional HMA which is co-

terminus with those three authorities can assume to have been assessed.

» The three authorities need to work closely together under Duty to Co-operate to ensure

all the assessed needs within that notional HMA are met.

» This report presents the OAN for Gateshead Council and Newcastle upon Tyne City council

areas.

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3. Demographic Projections The starting point for Objectively Assessed Need

Process for Establishing Objectively Assessed Need 3.1 The Objective Assessment of Need (OAN) identifies the total amount of housing needed in the

Housing Market Area (HMA). This evidence assists with the production of the Local Plan (which sets

out the spatial policy for a local area).

3.2 The process for developing OAN is now a demographic process to derive housing need from a

consideration of population and household projections. To this, external market and macro-economic

constraints are applied (‘Market Signals’) in order to embed the need in the real world.

Figure 17: Process for establishing a Housing Number for the HMA (Source: ORS based on NPPF and PPG)

3.3 It is important to recognise that the OAN does not take account of any possible constraints to future

housing supply. Such factors will be subsequently considered by the Council before establishing the

final Housing Requirement.

The assessment of development needs is an objective assessment of need based on facts and

unbiased evidence. Plan makers should not apply constraints to the overall assessment of need,

such as limitations imposed by the supply of land for new development, historic under performance,

viability, infrastructure or environmental constraints. However, these considerations will need to be

addressed when bringing evidence bases together to identify specific policies within development

plans. Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-004

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Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint Core Strategy 2010-30 3.4 The Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint Core Strategy 2010-30 identifies a total need for 30,000

dwellings across the two authorities. However, these figures were not evenly distributed across the 20

year period. Figure 18 shows the estimated distribution of the housing target across the 15 year

period starting in 2015. This shows an annual need for Gateshead over the period 2015-30 of 535

dwellings per annum and 1,040 dwellings per annum for Newcastle upon Tyne for the same period.

The Plan was adopted relatively recently, in March 2015, and should therefore be considered up-to-

date. Accordingly, all subsequent figures in this section should be seen in light of the existing housing

targets for the two authorities.

Figure 18: Gatesheand and Newcastle upon Tyne Existing Housing Targets (Source: gatershead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint

Core Strategy)

2015-2020 2020-2025 2025-2030 Total 2015-30

Gateshead 2,420 4,020 1,580 8,020

Newcastle upon Tyne 4,800 5,400 5,400 15,600

Total 7,220 9,420 6,980 23,620

Official Population and Household Projections 3.5 Planning Practice Guidance places emphasis on the role of CLG Household Projections as the

appropriate starting point in determining objectively assessed need. PPG was updated in February

2015 following the publication of the 2012-based Household Projections, but has yet to be updated to

reflect the publication of the 2014-based Household Projections.

Household projections published by the Department for Communities and Local Government should

provide the starting point estimate of overall housing need.

The household projections are produced by applying projected household representative rates to the

population projections published by the Office for National Statistics.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-015

The 2012-2037 Household Projections were published on 27 February 2015, and are the most up-to-

date estimate of future household growth.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2015), ID 2a-016

3.6 Given this context, Figure 19 sets out the 2014-based and 2012-based household projections that CLG

has produced for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne. It is clear that the projections have varied over

time, with the projected increase in households in Gateshead ranging from 400 up to 480 additional

households each year and the projected increase in households in Newcastle upon Tyne ranging from

770 up to 1,060. Each set of household projections will be influenced by a wide range of underlying

data and trend-based assumptions, and it is important to consider the range of projected growth and

not simply defer to the most recent data.

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Figure 19: CLG Household Projections for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne: annual average growth (Source: CLG Household

Projections)

2014-based 2012-based

10 years 2014-24

25 years 2014-39

10 years 2012-22

25 years 2012-37

Gateshead 440 400 480 430

Newcastle upon Tyne 1,060 970 770 770

3.7 The CLG 2014-based household projections show an increase of 400 households each year in

Gateshead over the 25-year period 2014-39, and a marginally higher rate (440 p.a.) in the initial 10-

year period. These figures project forward over the normal 25-year period and supersede the 2012-

based household projections (which projected a household growth of 430 per year from 2012-37).

3.8 In Newcastle upon Tyne the CLG 2014-based household projections show an increase of 970

households each year over the 25-year period 2014-39, and a marginally higher rate (1,060 p.a.) in the

initial 10-year period. The 2012-based household projections show a growth of 770 households per

year (from 2012-37).

3.9 The differences for each authority are due to changes in the ONS population projections (Figure 20) on

which the CLG household projections are based and changes to household representative rates

(considered later in this chapter).

3.10 Across the plan period both authorities are projected to show substantial growth in households. For

Gateshead the 2014-based household projections show an increase from 90,226 to 96,632 households

over the 15-year Plan period 2015-30 and we can establish that the “starting point estimate of overall

housing need” for the Plan period in Gateshead should therefore be based on an overall growth of

6,406 households, equivalent to an average of 427 households per year.

3.11 In Newcastle upon Tyne the 2014-based household projections show an increase from 122,424 to

137,471 households over the 15-year Plan period 2015-30. This represents an overall growth of

15,047 households over the Plan period and this can be established as the “starting point estimate of

overall housing need”, equivalent to an average of 1,003 households per year.

Official Population Projections 3.12 Figure 20 and Figure 21 show the outputs from the latest (2014-based) ONS Sub National Population

Projections together with the previous projections that have informed the various CLG household

projections (though note that CLG did not produce household projections based on the 2010-based

SNPP).

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Figure 20: ONS Mid-Year Estimates and Sub-National Population Projections for Gateshead (Source: ONS)

3.13 The population projections for Gateshead (Figure 20) shows similar predicted rates of growth for the

2011, 2012 and 2014 based projections, each starting from a different Mid-year Estimate level. Prior

to their revision based on the 2011 census, the Mid-year estimates were considerably lower, and thus

the 2010 and 2008 based population projections are significantly different from the post-2011 census

projections.

3.14 Newcastle upon Tyne’s projections are somewhat more varied. There is a clear and significant

difference, as with Gateshead, in the Mid-year estimate pre and post-2011 census. Of particular note

after 2011 is the very significant change between the 2012 and 2014 based projections, both in their

trajectory and rate of increase.

3.15 Differences in the projected increase in population between the different projections are largely

associated with the assumed migration rates, which are typically based on recent trends using 5-year

averages – so short-term changes in migration patterns can significantly affect the projected

population growth.

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Figure 21: ONS Mid-Year Estimates and Sub-National Population Projections for Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: ONS)

Population and Household Projections based on Local Circumstances 3.16 Whilst PPG identifies CLG household projections as the starting point for establishing housing need, it

also recognises the need to consider sensitivity testing this data and take account of local evidence.

Plan makers may consider sensitivity testing, specific to their local circumstances, based on

alternative assumptions in relation to the underlying demographic projections and household

formation rates. Account should also be taken of the most recent demographic evidence including

the latest Office of National Statistics population estimates

Any local changes would need to be clearly explained and justified on the basis of established

sources of robust evidence.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-017

3.17 Given that the demographic projections are trend-based, one of the most critical factors is the period

over which those trends are based. The PAS OAN technical advice note considers this issue in relation

to the ONS population projections (first edition, paragraphs 5.12-5.13):

“To predict migration between local authorities within the UK, the ONS population projections

carry forward the trends of the previous five years. This choice of base period can be critical to

the projection, because for many areas migration has varied greatly over time. … The results

of a demographic projection for (say) 2011-31 will be highly sensitive to the reference period

that the projection carries forward.”

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3.18 This issue has also been reinforced in PAS advice to Local Authorities12, where it has been emphasised

that whilst the CLG household projections provide the starting point, these official projections can be

very unstable given that they are based on migration trends covering only five years:

“For migration the base period is only five years:

• Makes the official projections very unstable

• And recent projections lock in the recession”

3.19 The second version of the PAS OAN technical advice note (July 2015)13 has also strengthened the

recommendation on the relevant period for assessing migration (second edition, paragraph 6.24):

“In assessing housing need it is generally advisable to test alternative scenarios based on a

longer reference period, probably starting with the 2001 Census (further back in history data

may be unreliable). Other things being equal, a 10-to-15 year base period should provide

more stable and more robust projections than the ONS’s five years. But sometimes other

things will not be equal, because the early years of this long period included untypical one-

off events as described earlier. If so, a shorter base period despite its disadvantages could be

preferable.”

3.20 The relevant period for assessing migration trends was considered by an article by Ludi Simpson

(Professor of Population Studies at the University of Manchester) and Neil MacDonald (previously

Chief Executive of the National Housing and Planning Advice Unit) published in Town and Country

Planning (April 2015)14.

“The argument for using a five-year period rather than a longer one is that the shorter the

period, the more quickly changes in trends are picked up. The counter-argument is that a

shorter period is more susceptible to cyclical trends, an argument that has particular force

when the five-year period in question – 2007-12 – neatly brackets the deepest and longest

economic downturn for more than a generation. … A large number of local authority areas

are affected by this issue. For 60% of authorities the net flow of migrants within the UK in

2007-12 was different by more than 50% from the period 2002-07. While this is comparing a

boom period with a recession, it serves to indicate the impact of the choice of reference

period for trend projections.”

3.21 The issue has also been referenced by Inspectors examining numerous Local Plans, for example the

following comments provided by the Cornwall Inspector in the letter setting out his preliminary

findings (June 2015)15:

“3.6 Migration. The demographic model used in the SHMNA and the more recent ONS

projection uses migration flows from the previous 5 years only. Given the significance of

migration as a component of change for Cornwall and to even-out the likely effect of the

recent recession on migration between 2008-2012 a longer period than 5 years would give a

more realistic basis for projecting this component. A period of 10-12 years was suggested at

the hearing and I consider that this would be reasonable, rather than the 17 year period

used in ID.01.CC.3.3. I also consider that the ONS’ Unattributable Population Change

12 “SHLAA, SHMA and OAN aka ‘Pobody’s Nerfect’”, PAS presentation at Urban Design London (July 2015) http://learningspace.urbandesignlondon.com/course/view.php?id=339 13 http://www.pas.gov.uk/documents/332612/6549918/OANupdatedadvicenote/f1bfb748-11fc-4d93-834c-a32c0d2c984d 14 “Making sense of the new English household projections”, Town and Country Planning (April 2015) 15 https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/media/12843214/ID05-Preliminary-Findings-June-2015-2-.pdf

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component should be assigned to international migration for the reasons given by Edge

Analytics in ID.01.CC3.3. This approach was not disputed at the hearing.”

3.22 On balance, we consider that:

» 5-year trend migration scenarios are less reliable: they have the potential to roll-forward

short-term trends that are unduly high or low and therefore are unlikely to provide a robust

basis for long-term planning.

» 10-year trend migration scenarios are more likely to capture both highs and lows and are not

as dependent on trends that may be unlikely to be repeated. Therefore, we favour using 10-

year migration trends as the basis for our analysis.

3.23 This SHMA has, therefore, produced additional projections based on long-term migration trends as

part of the analysis. Whilst no one scenario will provide a definitive assessment of the future

population; considering demographic projections where migration is based on long-term trends

provides a more appropriate basis on which to consider future housing need.

3.24 Given the inherent uncertainties associated with the estimates of migration flows within the ONS Mid-

Year Estimates, it is important to consider changes recorded for the most recent inter-censal period

(2001-11) as the data for inter-censal periods is far more robust than other 10-year periods, especially

in areas where there are UPC issues identified. This approach was supported by the Inspector

examining the Core Strategy for Bath and North East Somerset. His report16 concluded (paragraphs

42-43):

“Given the uncertainties inherent in some of the data, particularly for flows of migrants

internationally, a 10 year period is a reasonable approach … The inter-censal period provides

a readily understandable and robust check on the reasonableness of the average of about

550 per year for migration and other change used in the ORS model. Thus I consider that the

ORS mid-trend population projection is a reasonable demographic projection.”

3.25 Nevertheless, it is also important to recognise long-term trends in migration patterns which could

suggest that future migration patterns may differ from those over the period 2001-11.

3.26 This document has therefore produced additional projections using a range of scenarios that have

been derived as part of the analysis. It is important to recognise that no one scenario will provide a

definitive assessment of the future population; but taken collectively the different scenarios can help

determine the most likely range of projections.

Reviewing the Official Population Estimates - Gateshead 3.27 Figure 22 shows the current and historic mid-year population estimates and Census estimates for

Gateshead over the period since 1981. The census data suggests that the borough’s population

decreased moderately over the period 1981-2001 but showed subsequent growth over the following

decade (2001-2011).

3.28 After the 2001 census, the ONS Mid-Year Estimates were then revised accordingly, accounting for the

disparity, illustrated in Figure 22, in the dotted line and the solid (revised current) Mid-Year estimates

around 2001.

16 Report on the Examination into Bath and North East Somerset Council’s Core Strategy (June 2014)

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3.29 ONS Mid-Year Estimates for the period since 2001 originally showed a moderate decrease in

population between 2001-2008, followed by a period of slight growth between 2008 and 2010.

However, the 2011 Census suggested that there were many more people living in Gateshead than had

previously been estimated. The ONS therefore revised upwards the previous estimates to reflect the

new Census data, with higher levels of growth assumed for the period 2001-2011 in particular. Since

2011, the population estimates have been relatively flat.

Figure 22: Official population estimates for Gateshead for the period 1981-2015 (Source: UK Census of Population 1981, 1991,

2001 and 2011; ONS Mid-Year Estimates, including data since superseded)

Components of Population Change 3.30 Changes in the population can be broadly classified into two categories: natural change in the

population (in terms of births and deaths) and changes due to migration, both in terms of international

migration and also moves within the UK. In addition to these changes, the ONS Mid-Year Estimates

include adjustments for other changes, the largest of which is often “Unattributable Population

Change”. This is an accountancy adjustment that enables the final population estimate to be

constrained to external data sources which are normally more reliable, such as the Census.

180,000

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Figure 23: Components of population change (Source: ONS Mid-Year Population Estimates, revised)

3.31 It is evident from Figure 23 that natural change remained relatively consistent over the period 1992-

2004, averaging 214 fewer persons each year. More recently, rates (2005-2015) have consistently

showed a gain, averaging 224 persons annually; with a higher number of births and fewer deaths

recorded. Migration and other changes vary much more – ranging from a net loss of 1300 persons

recorded for 1997-98 up to a single annual net gain of 1178 persons recorded for 2010-2011. Overall,

this is an annual average gain of 482 persons each year over the period 1991-2015 due to migration

and other changes based on official ONS Mid-Year Population Estimates. Also note that the period in

between 2001 and 2011 showed a sustained increase averaging 917 persons a year, with 837 of these

attributable to migration.

3.32 Whilst it is relatively straightforward to measure natural population change, it is much more difficult to

measure migration. Furthermore, the number of migrants can vary substantially from year to year;

and relatively small changes in gross flows can have a significant impact on overall net migration, and

it is recognised that the impact of international migration has been particularly difficult to measure;

and although current estimates have been improved, some historic data can be unreliable.

Unattributable Population Change

3.33 Given that the ONS consider the population estimates in 2001 and 2011 to be more robust than the

component of change data from year-to-year, an “accountancy” adjustment is factored into the

components of change to correct this data and ensure that it reconciles with the population estimates

for the two Census years. Therefore, in addition to the known population flows, an element of

“Unattributable Population Change” (UPC) is included in these figures.

3.34 Figure 24 presents the underlying data from the components of annual population change over the

period 1991 to 2015 including UPC.

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Figure 24: Components of population change, revised in the light of the 2011 Census (Source: ONS Mid-Year Population

Estimates, revised. Note: “Other Changes” includes adjustments for prisoners and armed forces. Figures for 2001-02

onward presented unrounded for transparency, but should only be treated as accurate to the nearest 100. Figures for

earlier years rounded to the nearest 100)

Births Deaths Natural Change

UK Migration International

Migration Other Change UPC

Migration and Other Changes

Total Change

In Out In Out

1991-92 2,700 2,600 0 - - - - - - -400 -400

1992-93 2,500 2,600 -100 - - - - - - -600 -600

1993-94 2,400 2,600 -300 - - - - - - -800 -1,000

1994-95 2,400 2,500 -100 - - - - - - -1,000 -1,200

1995-96 2,300 2,500 -200 - - - - - - -1,100 -1,300

1996-97 2,300 2,500 -100 - - - - - - -1,100 -1,200

1997-98 2,200 2,500 -300 - - - - - - -1,300 -1,600

1998-99 2,200 2,500 -300 - - - - - - -700 -1,100

1999-00 2,000 2,400 -300 - - - - - - -1,000 -1,400

2000-01 2,100 2,300 -300 - - - - - - -400 -700

2001-02 1,999 2,265 -266 6,118 6,521 328 372 421 673 647 381

2002-03 2,048 2,220 -172 6,502 6,539 240 436 296 665 728 556

2003-04 2,073 2,279 -206 6,447 6,439 237 675 158 680 408 202

2004-05 2,096 2,236 -140 6,455 6,536 454 486 113 680 680 540

2005-06 2,184 2,054 130 6,724 6,483 766 1,135 31 725 628 758

2006-07 2,249 1,983 266 6,850 6,723 985 861 51 751 1,053 1,319

2007-08 2,261 2,091 170 6,736 6,753 801 635 57 768 974 1,144

2008-09 2,419 2,103 316 6,470 6,592 730 424 116 787 1,087 1,403

2009-10 2,298 2,033 265 6,519 6,784 640 297 48 859 985 1,250

2010-11 2,436 1,996 440 6,482 6,415 670 535 91 885 1,178 1,618

2011-12 2,333 2,154 179 6,989 7,215 636 765 -20 - -375 -196

2012-13 2,261 2,152 109 6,792 7,224 586 445 27 - -264 -155

2013-14 2,289 2,035 254 7,424 7,074 741 853 15 - 253 507

2014-15 2,318 2,199 119 7,873 7,480 738 779 20 - 372 491

3.35 With the removal of the UPC component, the remaining components of population change between

2001 and 2011 yield a population growth of 168 per year, with an average growth of 63 due to

migration. This is significantly lower than the 917 persons per year (837 due to migration and other),

implying a considerably smaller net population increase in the period when discounting data

adjustments due to the unreliable census (Figure 25).

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Figure 25: Components of population change without the inclusion of UPC (Source: ONS Mid-Year Population Estimates,

revised)

3.36 It is evident that the UPC adjustment was typically an increase of around 650-900 persons each year (a

total of 7,473 persons over the 10-year period) which was needed to reconcile the component of

change data with the Census population estimates for 2001 and 2011.

3.37 The ONS “Report on Unattributable Population Change” (ONS, January 2014)17 notes (page 3):

“The UPC is likely to be due to a combination of sampling variability, or other issues, in the

following:

– International migration estimates

– Census estimates, both 2001 and 2011

– Internal migration estimates (at subnational level only)”

3.38 The large correction to Mid-Year estimates that the 2001 census engendered, along with the increase

of almost 7,500 unattributable persons between 2001 and 2011, to then return to a flat state after

2011, implies that OND estimates of population change in Gateshead may not have been accurate in

the past and may be continuing to display problems now.

Estimating Population Change with Other Data 3.39 Since the census data has proven to be unreliable, we have examined other data to try to accurately

determine the population. Highly correlated with the degree of population increase is a similar

increase in the number of people on the patient register. The number of people on the patient

register does not necessarily equal the true population of an area, as many non-residents can be

included for a variety of reasons.

3.40 Figure 26 below shows the correlation between the patient register and MYE for every local authority

in England between 2011 and 2015. This shows that the patient register in Gateshead has been

growing much more strongly than the rate of change in the MYE in the period 2011-15. This is

17 http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/about-ons/get-involved/consultations-and-user-surveys/consultations/consultation-on-the-2012-based-subnational-population-projections-for-england/snpp-consult-upc.pdf

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indicative of a population which is growing more rapidly than the MYE shows. This is particularly

important given that the population growth for Gateshead was under-estimated between 2001 and

2011. This therefore represents evidence that the previous under-estimates of population growth in

Gateshead are still continuing.

Figure 26: Correlation between change in patient register and change in mid-year population estimates (Source: ONS Mid-Year

Population Estimates Quality Assurance Pack)

3.41 Consistent with the base date of the Plan period, we propose an upwardly adjusted mid-year estimate

for Gateshead in line with the following requirement of the PPG:

Account should also be taken of the most recent demographic evidence including the latest Office of

National Statistics population estimates.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-017

3.42 Full details of the adjustments made to the data are shown later in this chapter.

Reviewing the Official Population Estimates – Newcastle upon Tyne 3.43 Figure 27 shows the current and historic mid-year population estimates and Census estimates for

Newcastle upon Tyne over the period since 1981. The census data suggests that the borough’s

population decreased moderately over the period 1981-1991, remained fairly static between 1991 and

2001, but showed subsequent growth over the following decade (2001-2011).

Gateshead

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3.44 The census data from 2001 was called into question by the ONS18. Their report found (paragraphs 3

and 4):

“Newcastle upon Tyne -upon-Tyne was selected for detailed analysis as part of the local

authority population studies, as it was identified as an area where there was a significant risk of

an under-estimate of the population by the 2001 Census.”

“After consideration of all the evidence, the population of Newcastle upon Tyne -upon-Tyne in

2001 was re-estimated, and it was concluded that the Census had under-estimated the

population by 5,305.”

3.45 ONS Mid-Year Estimates were then revised accordingly. The Mid-Year Estimates have been

consistently somewhat higher than the pre-2011 census estimates since 1981, implying a systematic

issue with the census’ reliability in the Newcastle upon Tyne area.

3.46 ONS Mid-Year Estimates for the period since 2001 (dotted line in Figure 27) showed a rapid and

accelerating increase in population between 2001 and 2010. However, the 2011 Census suggested

that there were fewer people living in the borough than had previously been estimated. The ONS

therefore revised downwards the previous estimates to reflect the new Census data, with lower levels

of growth assumed for the period 2007-2010 in particular.

Figure 27: Official population estimates for the period 1981-2015 (Source: UK Census of Population 1981, 1991, 2001 and 2011;

ONS Mid-Year Estimates, including data since superseded)

Components of Population Change 3.47 Changes in the population can be broadly classified into two categories: natural change in the

population (in terms of births and deaths) and changes due to migration, both in terms of international

migration and also moves within the UK. In addition to these changes, the ONS Mid-Year Estimates

include adjustments for other changes, the largest of which is often “Unattributable Population

Change”. This is an accountancy adjustment that enables the final population estimate to be

constrained to external data sources which are normally more reliable, such as the Census.

18

2004 Local Authority studies - Analysis of data and evidence for Newcastle upon Tyne – ONS 2004

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Figure 28: Components of population change (Source: ONS Mid-Year Population Estimates, revised)

3.48 It is evident from Figure 23 that natural change remained relatively consistent over the period 1991-

2005, averaging a decline of 53 persons each year. More recently rates (2005-2015) have increased,

consistently exceeding 300 persons annually, with an average increase of 800, (with many years

exceeding 1,000); as a higher number of births and fewer deaths have been recorded. Migration and

other changes vary much more – ranging from a net loss of 3500 persons recorded for 1997-98 up to a

single annual net gain of 3,900 persons recorded for 1992-1993; with an annual average gain of

433 persons each year over the period 1991-2015 due to migration and other changes based on

official ONS Mid-Year Population Estimates.

3.49 Whilst it is relatively straightforward to measure natural population change, it is much more difficult to

measure migration. Furthermore, the number of migrants can vary substantially from year to year;

and relatively small changes in gross flows can have a significant impact on overall net migration, and

it is recognised that the impact of international migration has been particularly difficult to measure;

and although current estimates have been improved, some historic data can be unreliable.

Unattributable Population Change

3.50 Given that the ONS consider the population estimates in 2001 and 2011 to be more robust than the

component of change data from year-to-year, an “accountancy” adjustment is factored into the

components of change to correct this data and ensure that it reconciles with the population estimates

for the two Census years. Therefore, in addition to the known population flows, an element of

“Unattributable Population Change” (UPC) is included in these figures.

3.51 Figure 29 presents the underlying data from the components of annual population change over the

period 1991 to 2015 including UPC.

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Figure 29: Components of population change, revised in the light of the 2011 Census (Source: ONS Mid-Year Population

Estimates, revised. Note: “Other Changes” includes adjustments for prisoners and armed forces. Figures for 2001-02

onward presented unrounded for transparency, but should only be treated as accurate to the nearest 100. Figures for

earlier years rounded to the nearest 100)

Births Deaths Natural Change

UK Migration International

Migration Other Change UPC

Migration and Other Changes

Total Change

In Out In Out

1991-92 3,700 3,500 200 - - - - - - 3,500 3,700

1992-93 3,600 3,500 100 - - - - - - 3,900 4,000

1993-94 3,400 3,500 -100 - - - - - - -1,500 -1,600

1994-95 3,500 3,500 0 - - - - - - 100 100

1995-96 3,200 3,300 -100 - - - - - - -300 -400

1996-97 3,300 3,300 0 - - - - - - -2,800 -2,700

1997-98 3,100 3,300 -200 - - - - - - -3,500 -3,700

1998-99 2,900 3,200 -300 - - - - - - -3,200 -3,500

1999-00 2,900 3,100 -200 - - - - - - -3,200 -3,400

2000-01 2,800 3,000 -200 - - - - - - -1,200 -1,400

2001-02 2,941 3,009 -68 16,055 16,659 2,994 2,051 1,313 -824 828 760

2002-03 2,945 2,981 -36 16,197 16,324 2,376 2,463 913 -802 -103 -139

2003-04 2,894 2,866 28 16,864 16,299 3,116 3,311 435 -811 -6 22

2004-05 2,917 2,783 134 17,086 17,217 5,089 1,816 230 -782 2,590 2,724

2005-06 3,145 2,808 337 17,197 17,618 5,918 4,555 156 -785 313 650

2006-07 3,182 2,617 565 16,911 18,652 6,368 3,261 166 -778 754 1,319

2007-08 3,321 2,702 619 16,945 19,152 5,181 3,076 302 -747 -547 72

2008-09 3,357 2,635 722 17,472 19,117 5,405 2,238 287 -758 1,051 1,773

2009-10 3,496 2,504 992 17,324 18,943 6,249 1,749 129 -743 2,267 3,259

2010-11 3,487 2,461 1,026 17,260 18,738 5,930 2,565 251 -753 1,385 2,411

2011-12 3,380 2,375 1,005 19,450 18,951 4,624 2,814 36 - 2,345 3,350

2012-13 3,427 2,351 1,076 18,892 18,945 5,407 2,052 1 - 3,303 4,379

2013-14 3,383 2,340 1,043 20,003 20,139 5,612 3,511 6 - 1,971 3,014

2014-15 3,287 2,676 611 19,326 19,811 6,137 3,217 2 - 2,437 3,048

3.52 With the removal of the UPC component, the remaining components of population change between

2001 and 2011 yield a population of 2,460 per year, with an average of 1,884 due to migration. This is

significantly higher than the 1,903 persons per year (1,327 due to migration and other), implying a

considerably larger net population increase in the period when discounting data adjustments due to

the unreliable census (Figure 30).

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Figure 30: Components of population change without the inclusion of UPC (Source: ONS Mid-Year Population Estimates,

revised)

Estimating Population Change with Other Data 3.53 Figure 31 below shows the same correlation between the patient register and MYE for every local

authority in England between 2011 and 2015 as was used for Gateshead. This shows that the patient

register in Newcastle upon Tyne has been growing much more slowly than the rate of change in the

MYE in the period 2011-15. This is indicative of a population which is growing more slowly than the

MYE shows. This is again particularly important given that the population growth for Newcastle upon

Tyne was over-estimated between 2001 and 2011. This therefore represents evidence that the

previous over-estimates of population growth in Newcastle upon Tyne are still continuing.

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Figure 31: Correlation between change in patient register and change in mid-year population estimates (Source: ONS Mid-Year

Population Estimates Quality Assurance Pack)

3.54 We again therefore propose an adjusted mid-year estimate in line with the following requirement of

the PPG:

Student Housing and the OAN 3.55 PPG was updated in March 2015 to include specific reference to identifying the needs of students:

Local planning authorities should plan for sufficient student accommodation whether it consists of

communal halls of residence or self-contained dwellings, and whether or not it is on campus.

Student housing provided by private landlords is often a lower-cost form of housing. Encouraging

more dedicated student accommodation may provide low cost housing that takes pressure off the

private rented sector and increases the overall housing stock. Plan makers are encouraged to

consider options which would support both the needs of the student population as well as local

residents before imposing caps or restrictions on students living outside of university-provided

accommodation. Plan makers should engage with universities and other higher educational

establishments to better understand their student accommodation requirements.

Planning Practice Guidance 2014, paragraph 21

3.56 The key Higher Education Providers (HEP) in the Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne area are the

University of Newcastle upon Tyne and the University of Northumbria. In 2005, the universities had a

total of 34,200 students, but this had risen to 42,600 by 2015 as shown in Figure 32.

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Figure 32: Student Growth in Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: Council Records)

Year University of Newcastle University of

Northumberland Total

2000/01 12,969 12.302 25,271

2001/02 13,365 13,554 26,919

2002/03 14,328 14,667 28,995

2003/04 14,825 15,723 30,548

2004/05 16,056 16,170 32,226

2005/06 17.629 16,564 34,193

2006/07 18,741 17,162 35,903

2007/08 18,761 17,317 36,078

2008/09 19,953 17,428 37,381

2009/10 20,841 19,012 39,853

2010/11 21,083 19,551 40,634

2011/12 21,000 19,112 40,112

2012/13 21,144 19,160 40,304

2013/14 21,541 20,358 41,899

2014/15 42,565

3.57 The issue of student growth was addressed in the Joint Core Strategy19 and the key assumption made

is that student numbers in the City, particularly numbers of international students, have reached a

plateau. In establishing the OAN for an HMA, students typically would be included in the trend-based

analysis; therefore the needs of student households are counted as part of the overall OAN.

3.58 In practice student numbers in Newcastle upon Tyne have grown very rapidly over the period 2005-15

and hence would contribute heavily towards ONS’s projections of population. However, the

universities now expect little, if any, student growth in the future. Therefore, the trend based

projections would anticipate a growth in student numbers which is not expected to be replicated in

the future. Therefore, we have calculated the effect of students on the OAN through their impact on

migration and removed this migration growth from the demographic projections. Therefore the

demographic projections assume that no further growth in student number s occurs.

3.59 We would also note that the number of persons migrating between Newcastle upon Tyne and

Gateshead grew by 283 net from the 2001 Census to the 2011 Census. Therefore a net 283 more

persons left Newcastle upon Tyne to move to Gateshead. A possible explanation for this change is the

growth in student numbers in Newcastle upon Tyne which effectively displaced people who would

have otherwise remained in Newcastle upon Tyne and saw them move to Gateshead.

3.60 This effect is very difficult to check because of the issues with MYE mean by implication that there

must be issues with recent migration data for the two authorities. Therefore, any migration changes

between the two authorities cannot be checked accurately against recent migration data. On this

basis we have made an adjustment to the migration flows for each local authority to reduce net out-

migration from Newcastle upon Tyne to Gateshead in light of the expectation that student growth in

Newcastle upon Tyne will stop.

19 Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Core Strategy and Urban Core Plan Student Household statement 11th June 2014

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Summary of Population Projection Adjustments 3.61 In summary, for this SHMA we took the initial starting position of SNPP 2014 based, but made a

number of significant adjustments to this data:

» The starting point MYE 2015 was adjusted upwards for Gateshead and downwards for

Newcastle upon Tyne based on evidence from the patient register. In both cases the

adjustment mirrors issues with the population data from between 2001 and 2011. This

increases past and projected population growth in Gateshead and reduces it in Newcastle

upon Tyne;

» Migration trends were moved from 5 years in SNPP 2014 based to use 10 year migration

trends between 2005-15 to better reflect the long-term migration for both Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne. This increase projected population growth in both authorities;

» A detailed analysis of the impact of students on the population and migration was

undertaken which showed that migration trends include a substantial growth in students,

but there is no expectation that this will continue in to the future. Therefore the net

impact of students has been removed from the migration data. This reduces population

growth in both authorities; and

» Net migration from Newcastle upon Tyne to Gateshead grew from 2001 to 2011, with a

contributing factor likely to be the impact of students on the housing market in Newcastle

upon Tyne. We have therefore reduced net out-migration from Newcastle upon Tyne to

Gateshead in the population projections. This increases population growth in Newcastle

upon Tyne and reduces it in Gateshead.

3.62 Figure 33 shows the impact of each change on the population projections for both Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne. Each change represents a significant step, but should be seen as part of a wider

move to achieve robust projections for both authorities. It is noteworthy that both sets of final

population projections are higher than the starting point set out in 2014 based SNPP.

Figure 33: Summary of Effects of Adjustments on Population Projections for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne for 2015-30

Year Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

Starting point 2014 based SNPP 2015-30 6,983 24,125

updated to 2005-15 on 2015 13,700 38,745

PR adjustment to starting (2015) population 16,451 36,414

Remove growth in Student numbers for future trend 13,799 26,438

Adjusting migration flows for Newcastle upon Tyne to reflect the impact of students

9,554 30,683

Establishing Population Projections 3.63 Figure 34 compares the 2014-based sub-national population projections (SNPP) (based on short-term

migration trends) with the SHMA projections based on longer-term migration trends, the Patient

Register and the MYE, over the 15-year period 2015-30 for Gateshead. The SNPP projections suggest

that the population will increase by 6,983 during this period, whilst the SHMA projections suggest a

growth of 9,554 persons over the same time.

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Figure 34: Gateshead population projection based on 10 year migration trends and other adjustments

Figure 35: Gateshead population projections 2015-30 by gender and 5-year age cohort based on 2014-based SNPP and SHMA

projection with 10-year migration trend and other adjustments (Note: All figures presented unrounded for

transparency)

2014-based SNPP Adjusted Estimates with 10 year trend 2005-15 projection

2015 2030 2015 2030

M F Total M F Total M F Total M F Total

Aged 0-4 5,891 5,579 11,470 5,611 5,245 10,856 6,288 5,887 12,175 5,815 5,447 11,261

Aged 5-9 5,822 5,681 11,503 5,642 5,352 10,994 5,736 5,671 11,407 5,838 5,560 11,398

Aged 10-14 5,139 5,043 10,182 5,659 5,385 11,044 5,215 5,016 10,231 5,815 5,558 11,373

Aged 15-19 6,233 5,494 11,727 6,410 5,758 12,168 5,941 5,667 11,608 6,742 6,061 12,803

Aged 20-24 6,072 5,730 11,802 6,224 5,538 11,763 6,048 6,207 12,255 6,296 5,719 12,015

Aged 25-29 6,735 7,043 13,778 6,492 6,056 12,548 6,991 7,281 14,271 6,698 6,269 12,967

Aged 30-34 6,855 7,029 13,883 7,272 6,488 13,760 7,082 7,007 14,089 7,371 6,746 14,117

Aged 35-39 6,317 6,108 12,424 7,429 6,801 14,230 6,171 6,032 12,203 7,585 7,125 14,709

Aged 40-44 6,282 6,488 12,769 6,695 6,687 13,382 6,246 6,655 12,901 6,906 6,924 13,829

Aged 45-49 6,925 7,289 14,214 6,155 6,524 12,679 7,046 7,285 14,331 6,360 6,600 12,959

Aged 50-54 7,195 7,468 14,663 5,659 5,823 11,482 7,345 7,561 14,906 5,667 5,863 11,531

Aged 55-59 6,503 6,540 13,043 5,830 6,149 11,979 6,333 6,481 12,815 5,841 6,322 12,162

Aged 60-64 5,459 5,639 11,098 6,330 6,733 13,063 5,626 5,731 11,357 6,454 6,778 13,232

Aged 65-69 5,716 6,034 11,750 6,286 6,714 12,999 5,933 6,060 11,993 6,423 6,822 13,244

Aged 70-74 4,042 4,633 8,675 5,385 5,685 11,070 3,985 4,623 8,609 5,283 5,666 10,949

Aged 75-79 3,533 4,135 7,668 4,135 4,615 8,750 3,519 4,130 7,649 4,246 4,692 8,938

Aged 80-84 2,364 3,185 5,548 3,617 4,250 7,866 2,388 3,166 5,554 3,763 4,289 8,052

Aged 85+ 1,659 2,937 4,596 3,019 4,125 7,145 1,696 3,049 4,745 2,985 4,125 7,110

Total 98,742 102,054 200,796 103,850 103,929 207,779 99,590 103,508 203,098 106,086 106,566 212,652

3.64 Figure 36 shows the equivalent figures for Newcastle upon Tyne over the 15-year period 2015-30. The

SNPP projections suggest that the population will increase by 24,125 during this period, whilst the

SHMA projections suggest a growth of 30,683 persons over the same time.

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3.65 We would note that the St Chads report which underwrote the Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

JCS projected by 2015 that the population of Newcastle upon Tyne would be 287,900 persons. This is

clearly around 4,400 persons lower than the adjusted population set out in this SHMA. The population

of Newcastle upon Tyne has clearly grown much more quickly than was anticipated between 2010-15

with a sharp grow in student numbers at the forefront of this growth. As noted above it is important

that past trends are properly factored in to future growth projections, but also that the role of

students is properly considered in those same projections. The adjusted estimates contained in this

SHMA both consider the higher rate of growth which has occurred in the population of Newcastle

upon Tyne and factor that in to future projections, but also consider the likely plateau in student

numbers.

Figure 36: Newcastle upon Tyne population projection based on 10 year migration trends

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Figure 37: Newcastle upon Tyne population projections 2015-30 by gender and 5-year age cohort based on 2014-based SNPP

and SHMA projection with 10-year migration trend (Note: All figures presented unrounded for transparency)

2014-based SNPP Adjusted Estimates with 10 year trend 2005-15 projection

2015 2030 2015 2030

M F Total M F Total M F Total M F Total

Aged 0-4 8,876 8,489 17,364 8,992 8,560 17,552 8,799 8,279 17,079 9,161 8,718 17,879

Aged 5-9 8,486 7,859 16,345 8,996 8,488 17,484 8,348 7,862 16,209 9,186 8,655 17,841

Aged 10-14 7,280 6,850 14,130 8,896 8,235 17,131 7,396 6,922 14,318 9,107 8,415 17,521

Aged 15-19 10,592 10,575 21,167 11,894 11,638 23,532 9,581 9,257 18,837 12,049 11,685 23,733

Aged 20-24 20,987 18,930 39,916 21,524 19,114 40,638 19,988 18,425 38,413 22,020 19,517 41,537

Aged 25-29 14,076 11,715 25,792 13,487 10,390 23,876 13,747 12,470 26,218 13,952 10,654 24,606

Aged 30-34 10,464 9,693 20,157 12,041 9,480 21,522 10,676 10,261 20,937 12,249 9,593 21,842

Aged 35-39 8,457 8,127 16,584 11,095 9,348 20,444 8,823 8,378 17,200 11,134 9,398 20,532

Aged 40-44 8,309 7,955 16,264 9,680 8,851 18,532 8,787 7,984 16,770 9,776 9,155 18,931

Aged 45-49 8,563 8,291 16,854 8,301 8,338 16,639 8,515 8,488 17,002 8,474 8,611 17,085

Aged 50-54 8,536 8,820 17,355 7,324 7,354 14,678 8,940 8,922 17,862 7,574 7,556 15,129

Aged 55-59 7,907 7,868 15,775 7,368 7,364 14,732 8,065 8,021 16,086 7,656 7,408 15,064

Aged 60-64 6,638 6,661 13,299 7,518 7,611 15,129 6,861 6,705 13,567 7,519 7,767 15,286

Aged 65-69 6,503 6,472 12,976 7,146 7,811 14,956 6,512 6,518 13,031 7,418 7,892 15,310

Aged 70-74 4,298 4,695 8,994 6,172 6,700 12,872 4,302 4,674 8,976 6,281 6,814 13,095

Aged 75-79 3,496 4,498 7,994 4,827 5,356 10,183 3,403 4,421 7,824 4,962 5,385 10,347

Aged 80-84 2,598 3,507 6,106 4,167 4,636 8,802 2,545 3,527 6,072 4,188 4,668 8,856

Aged 85+ 2,045 3,910 5,955 3,543 4,909 8,452 2,036 3,844 5,880 3,512 4,857 8,369

Total 148,112 144,915 293,028 162,971 154,182 317,153 147,323 144,958 292,281 166,216 156,748 322,964

Economic Activity Projections 3.66 Forecasting future economic activity rates (EAR) is a challenge: the analysis is inherently complex and

dependent on a range of demographic, socio-economic and structural changes in the labour market.

However, the performance of the labour market in future years (and especially the impact of changing

employment patterns) is an important factor which affects demand for housing.

3.67 The Labour Force Survey (LFS) is a continuous survey of the employment circumstances of the nation’s

population: it provides the official measures of employment and unemployment. Figure 38 shows

economic activity rates by age and gender for the UK since 1991, based on LFS data. It is evident that

EAR rates are unlikely to remain constant in future as illustrated by past trends.

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Figure 38: Economic Activity Rate long-term UK trends (Source: Labour Market Statistics based on Labour Force Survey)

3.68 There are a number of notable trends evident:

» Economic activity rates for people aged under 25 have steadily declined, primarily as a

consequence of the increased numbers remaining in full-time education;

» Economic activity rates for women in all groups aged 25+ have tended to increase, in

particular those aged 50-64 where the rate has increased by almost a third (from 49% to

65%); and

» Economic activity rates for men and women aged 50+ have tended to increase, in particular

over the period since 2001.

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3.69 These changes in participation identified by the Labour Force Survey have been confirmed by Census

data, which also shows that national trends are typically reflected at a local level.

3.70 The most recent economic activity rate projections produced by ONS were published in January 2006

and covered the period to 202020; however these figures suggested substantially lower changes in

activity rates than actually experienced over the last decade. However, the performance of the labour

market is important for national government, particularly in terms of forecasting the long term

sustainability of tax revenues. As part of their scrutiny of Government finances, the Office for Budget

Responsibility (OBR) provide an independent and authoritative analysis of the UK’s public finances for

Government, which includes detailed analysis of past and future labour market trends21.

Labour Market Participation Projections 3.71 The labour market participation projections produced by the OBR are based on historic profiles of

different cohorts of the overall population – subsets that are grouped by year of birth and gender.

Their analysis is not based on simplistic trends but is designed to capture dynamics that are specific to

particular ages and those that cut across generations:

“We project each cohort into the future using age-specific labour market entry and exit rates

as they age across time. These exit and entry rates are generally held constant, although we

adjust entry rates for younger cohorts (discussed further below), and exit rates for people

approaching the State Pension age (SPA), since the SPA rises over our projection period.”

3.72 Their analysis concludes:

» Older people; economic activity rates of older people will increase in future years, mainly

from a combination of factors including changes to State Pension age, less generous final

salary pensions and increasing healthy longevity;

» Female participation; in addition to changes to state pension age, economic activity rates for

women will also increase due to cohort change: more women born in the 1980s will work

compared to those born in the 1970s across all comparable ages, and the rates for women

born in the 1970s will be higher than for those born in the 1960s and so on; and

» Young people; economic activity rates of younger people will stop declining, although young

people will continue to stay longer in education and the lower participation rates recently

observed are not assumed to increase in future.

Older People 3.73 Recent increases in State Pension age (SPA) are expected to prompt a labour market response as

people retiring at an older age will exit the labour market later. Recent research from the Institute for

Fiscal Studies (IFS) and University College London22 concluded that:

“Future increases in the state pension age will lead to a substantial increase in employment”.

3.74 However, the issue is complex: most people do not retire at the SPA precisely, and other factors

influence retirement decisions:

20 Projections of the UK labour force, 2006 to 2020 by Vassilis Madouros; published in ONS Labour Market Trends, January 2006 21 OBR Fiscal Sustainability Report, July 2014: http://cdn.budgetresponsibility.org.uk/41298-OBR-accessible.pdf 22 http://www.ifs.org.uk/pr/spa_pr_0313.pdf

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» Health: longer, healthier lives mean people spend longer in employment;

» Education: higher levels of education are associated with working for longer and service

sector expansion (including new technology and self-employment) give new options for some

people to work for longer;

» Family circumstances: evidence suggests couples make joint retirement decisions, choosing

to retire at similar points in time;

» Financial considerations: expectations of post-retirement incomes are changing as people

(especially women) have to wait longer before receiving their State Pension and defined

benefit pensions continue to decline; and

» Compulsory retirement age: the default retirement age (formerly 65) has been phased out –

most people can now work for as long as they want to. Retirement age, therefore, is when an

employee chooses to retire. Most businesses don’t set a compulsory retirement age for their

employees23.

3.75 Nevertheless, the financial drivers are particularly important to the decision of when to retire, and

changes to the State Pension age coupled with reduced membership of private schemes (Figure 39)

will inevitably lead to higher economic activity rates amongst the older population.

Figure 39: Membership of private sector defined benefit and defined contribution schemes (Source: NAO)

3.76 Figure 40 shows the long-term trends in employment rates for men and women aged 60-74 together

with the OBR short-term and longer-term projections.

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Figure 40: Employment rates for 60-74 years olds (Source: ONS, OBR. Note: Prior to 1983, the Labour Force Survey does not

contain an annual series for these indicators, so only available years are shown. The OBR medium-term forecast to

2018 is produced top-down, not bottom-up, so the dotted lines for that period are a simple linear interpolation)

3.77 In summary, for those:

» Aged 60-64: employment rates for women are projected to continue increasing rapidly over

the short-term as the SPA is equalised. Rates for both men and women are then projected to

increase more marginally over the longer-term, although the projected rates for men remain

notably lower than those actually observed in the late 1970s;

» Aged 65-69: the gap between rates for men and women is projected to reduce over the

short-term, with rates for both expected to increase progressively over the longer-term; and

» Aged 70-74: the rates for these older men and women are projected to converge, although

only marginal increases in the rates are otherwise expected – fewer than 1-in-8 people in this

age group are expected to be working until at least the 2030s.

Female Participation 3.78 Women’s participation in the labour force has increased, particularly since the 1970s, for a complex

range of societal and economic reasons:

» Childbirth: decisions regarding children are changing. More women choose childlessness, or

childbirth is delayed until women are in their 30s or 40s. Post childbirth decisions on return

to the workforce are also influenced by a variety of factors (e.g. childcare arrangements, tax

implications for second incomes, family circumstances);

» Lone parents: employment rates for lone parents lag behind mothers with partners, but this

gap has been closing;

» Support services for women in work: an increase in available options to support women in

work (e.g. childcare services, flexible working arrangements);

» Equal pay: the gender wage differential has been narrowing (although still exists) giving

women higher rewards for work; and

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Our medium-term forecast is producted top-down, not bottom-up, so the dotted lines for that period are a simple linear interpolation.

Source: ONS, OBR

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» Education: higher levels of education have opened new career opportunities outside

historically traditional female sectors.

3.79 National policy still aspires to encourage more women into work. The Government is seeking to

“incentivise as many women as possible to remain in the labour market”24 and the Autumn Statement

in 2014 included plans for more support for childcare (for example, Tax Free Childcare; Childcare

Business Grant) and an ambition to match countries with even higher employment rates for women.

3.80 Historic data clearly shows that women born in the 1950s (who are now approaching retirement) have

been less likely to be economically active than those born more recently, based on the comparison of

data for individual ages. Participation rates for women have progressively increased over time:

women born in the 1960s had higher rates than those born in the 1950s, women born in the 1970s

had higher rates again, and women born in the 1980s have had the highest rates. The OBR projections

take account of these historic differences between cohorts, but they do not assume that female

cohorts yet to enter the labour market have even higher participation rates.

3.81 Figure 41 shows the trends in female economic participation rates by year of birth together with the

OBR projections, which show how this cohort effect is likely to contribute towards higher economic

activity rates in future.

Figure 41: Female participation rates by Cohort (Source: ONS, OBR)

Young People 3.82 The key issue for young people is at what age they enter the labour market. There has been a

pronounced fall in economic participation rates for 16 and 17 year olds over time, but this fall in

economic activity complements an increase in academic activity as young people stay longer in

education25. There have been similar (though less pronounced) declining trends for 18-20 year olds.

24 https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/371955/Women_in_the_workplace_Nov_2014.pdf 25 http://www.hefce.ac.uk/pubs/year/2015/201503/

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3.83 National policy is also changing. The school leaving age rose to 18 in 2015 and the Government has

removed the cap on student numbers attending higher education26.

3.84 The policy changes indicate it is unlikely that economic participation rates will increase for these

younger age groups. However, it should be noted that OBR projections expect these lower

participation rates to stabilise at the current level rather than continue to decline. Further, the

projections assume that this increased academic activity will not reduce economic activity rates as

individuals get older. For example, entry rates into the labour market for people in their twenties are

assumed to be higher than previously observed to take account of those who have deferred economic

activity due to academic study.

Projecting Future Economic Activity for Gateshead 3.85 Figure 42 shows the estimated economic activity rates for 2015 and the projected rates for 2030 based

on Census and Annual Population Survey (APS) data for Gateshead and the OBR labour market

participation projections.

Figure 42: Economic activity rates in 2015 and 2030 by age and gender based on OBR Labour Market Participation Projections

3.86 Participation rates for men under 55 are forecast to remain constant whereas there is increased in

participation projected for men aged 55 and over. These changes are relatively marginal, with the

exception of rates for men aged 60 to 69. Participation rates for women are projected to change due

to the cohort effects previously discussed. The rates for those aged under 40 increase marginally, but

there are increased participation rates projected for all older age groups.

3.87 Figure 43 shows the estimated economically active population for Gateshead in 2015 and the

projected economically active population in 2030 based on the SHMA population projections

previously shown.

26 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-25236341

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Figure 43: Projected economically active population 2015-30 (Note: All figures presented unrounded for transparency)

Age 2015 2030

M F Total M F Total

Aged 16-19 2,455 2,523 4,978 2,881 2,730 5,611

Aged 20-24 5,036 4,822 9,858 5,325 4,478 9,803

Aged 25-29 6,354 6,098 12,452 6,142 5,276 11,418

Aged 30-34 6,463 5,886 12,348 6,780 5,717 12,497

Aged 35-39 5,667 5,062 10,729 6,981 6,044 13,025

Aged 40-44 5,671 5,643 11,314 6,291 6,049 12,341

Aged 45-49 6,295 6,226 12,521 5,713 5,814 11,527

Aged 50-54 6,322 6,179 12,501 4,897 4,949 9,846

Aged 55-59 5,060 4,585 9,645 4,696 4,682 9,377

Aged 60-64 3,314 2,374 5,688 4,227 3,863 8,089

Aged 65-69 789 514 1,303 1,511 1,606 3,117

Aged 70-74 229 172 401 442 485 926

Aged 75+ 260 169 429 545 427 972

Total 53,916 50,251 104,168 56,429 52,119 108,549

Total Change 2015-2030

- - - +2,513 +1,868 +4,381

3.88 The economically active population is likely to increase by 4,381 people over the 15-year period 2015-

30 given the population projections based on 10-year migration trends 2005-15.

Projecting Future Economic Activity for Newcastle upon Tyne 3.89 Figure 42 shows the estimated economic activity rates for 2015 and the projected rates for 2030 based

on Census and Annual Population Survey (APS) data for Newcastle upon Tyne and the OBR labour

market participation projections.

Figure 44: Economic activity rates in 2015 and 2030 by age and gender based on OBR Labour Market Participation Projections

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3.90 Participation rates for men under 55 are forecast to remain constant whereas there is increased in

participation projected for men aged 55 and over. These changes are relatively marginal, with the

exception of rates for men aged 60 to 69. Participation rates for women are projected to change due

to the cohort effects previously discussed. The rates for those aged under 40 increase marginally, but

there are increased participation rates projected for all older age groups.

3.91 Figure 43 shows the estimated economically active population for Newcastle upon Tyne in 2015 and

the projected economically active population in 2030 based on the SHMA population projections

previously shown.

Figure 45: Projected economically active population 2015-30 (Note: All figures presented unrounded for transparency)

Age 2015 2030

M F Total M F Total

Aged 16-19 3,520 3,559 7,079 4,472 4,582 9,054

Aged 20-24 10,778 10,726 21,504 12,675 11,580 24,255

Aged 25-29 11,382 9,469 20,850 11,762 8,156 19,917

Aged 30-34 9,211 7,903 17,113 10,707 7,491 18,198

Aged 35-39 7,701 6,348 14,049 9,754 7,252 17,006

Aged 40-44 7,566 6,332 13,898 8,464 7,582 16,046

Aged 45-49 7,413 6,819 14,232 7,428 7,224 14,652

Aged 50-54 7,261 6,850 14,111 6,186 6,058 12,244

Aged 55-59 5,971 5,435 11,405 5,717 5,291 11,008

Aged 60-64 3,582 2,357 5,939 4,501 4,068 8,569

Aged 65-69 1,262 861 2,124 2,142 2,170 4,313

Aged 70-74 416 328 744 764 796 1,560

Aged 75+ 445 497 942 895 864 1,759

Total 76,508 67,482 143,989 85,468 73,113 158,581

Total Change 2015-2030

- - - +8,960 +5,631 +14,592

3.92 The economically active population is likely to increase by 14,592 people over the 15-year period

2015-30 given the population projections based on 10-year migration trends 2005-15.

Household Population and Institutional Population 3.93 Prior to considering household projections, it is necessary to identify the household population and

separate out the population assumed to be living in Communal Establishments (institutional

population). Of particular importance are persons aged over 75 years living in nursing and care homes

which would be classed as institution population and not counted in the household projections. We

would note that older persons living in accommodation such as Extra-care and sheltered housing are

typically not classified as being in institutional housing and instead are counted in the household

projections.

3.94 The methodology used by the SHMA is consistent with the CLG approach27:

27 Household Projections 2012-based: Methodological Report, Department for Communities and Local Government, February 2015

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“For the household projections, the assumption is made that the institutional population

stays constant at 2011 levels by age, sex and marital status for the under 75s and that the

share of the institutional population stays at 2011 levels by age, sex and relationship status

for the over 75s. The rationale here is that ageing population will lead to greater level of

population aged over 75 in residential care homes that would not be picked up if levels were

held fixed but holding the ratio fixed will.” (page 12)

3.95 Figure 46 shows the breakdown between the household population and the population living in all

Communal Establishments for both of the scenarios. We would note the figures for communal

housing count all population including, for example, students in bedspaces, the prison population,

those in boarding schools and anyone in specialist accommodation because of health problems. In this

case they are all assumed to be held constant with the exception of the population aged 75 years and

over. They show a rise of 414 persons aged 75 years or over in Gateshead and 593 persons in

Newcastle upon Tyne in the institutional population.

Figure 46: Gateshead population projections 2015-30 by gender and 5-year age cohort (Note: Communal Establishment

population held constant for population aged under 75 (light blue cells), and held proportionately constant for each

relationship status for population aged 75 or over (orange cells); Totals may not sum due to rounding)

Age 2015 2030

HH CE Total HH CE Total

Aged 0-4 12,166 9 12,175 11,252 9 11,261

Aged 5-9 11,405 2 11,407 11,396 2 11,398

Aged 10-14 10,220 11 10,231 11,362 11 11,373

Aged 15-19 10,849 759 11,608 12,044 759 12,803

Aged 20-24 12,160 95 12,255 11,920 95 12,015

Aged 25-29 14,246 25 14,271 12,942 25 12,967

Aged 30-34 14,072 17 14,089 14,100 17 14,117

Aged 35-39 12,169 34 12,203 14,675 34 14,709

Aged 40-44 12,851 50 12,901 13,779 50 13,829

Aged 45-49 14,277 54 14,331 12,906 53 12,959

Aged 50-54 14,845 61 14,906 11,470 61 11,531

Aged 55-59 12,756 59 12,815 12,103 59 12,162

Aged 60-64 11,286 71 11,357 13,161 71 13,232

Aged 65-69 11,943 50 11,993 13,194 50 13,244

Aged 70-74 8,509 100 8,609 10,849 100 10,949

Aged 75-79 7,460 189 7,649 8,711 227 8,938

Aged 80-84 5,272 282 5,554 7,667 386 8,052

Aged 85+ 4,047 697 4,745 6,142 969 7,110

Total 200,534 2,564 203,098 209,675 2,977 212,652

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Figure 47: Newcastle upon Tyne population projections 2015-30 by gender and 5-year age cohort (Note: Communal

Establishment population held constant for population aged under 75 (light blue cells), and held proportionately

constant for each relationship status for population aged 75 or over (orange cells); Totals may not sum due to

rounding)

Age 2015 2030

HH CE Total HH CE Total

Aged 0-4 17,046 33 17,079 17,846 33 17,879

Aged 5-9 16,197 12 16,209 17,829 12 17,841

Aged 10-14 14,289 29 14,318 17,492 29 17,521

Aged 15-19 15,138 3,699 18,837 20,034 3,699 23,733

Aged 20-24 36,167 2,246 38,413 39,290 2,247 41,537

Aged 25-29 25,839 379 26,218 24,227 379 24,606

Aged 30-34 20,803 134 20,937 21,708 134 21,842

Aged 35-39 17,096 104 17,200 20,428 104 20,532

Aged 40-44 16,702 68 16,770 18,863 68 18,931

Aged 45-49 16,925 77 17,002 17,008 77 17,085

Aged 50-54 17,770 92 17,862 15,036 93 15,129

Aged 55-59 16,010 76 16,086 14,988 76 15,064

Aged 60-64 13,477 90 13,567 15,197 89 15,286

Aged 65-69 12,908 123 13,031 15,187 123 15,310

Aged 70-74 8,853 123 8,976 12,972 123 13,095

Aged 75-79 7,548 276 7,824 9,972 375 10,347

Aged 80-84 5,680 392 6,072 8,314 542 8,856

Aged 85+ 4,830 1,051 5,880 6,974 1,395 8,369

Total 283,278 9,004 292,281 313,366 9,598 322,964

3.96 It is important to recognise the growth of population aged 75 or over living in communal

establishments when considering the needs for older person housing, which is considered further in

both Chapter 6 and Chapter 7 of this SHMA Update.

Household Representative Rates 3.97 Household Representative Rates (HRRs) are a demographic tool used to convert population into

households and are based on those members of the population who can be classed as “household

representatives” or “heads of household”. The HRRs used are key to the establishment of the number

of households and, further, the number of households is key to the number of homes needed in

future.

3.98 The proportion of people in any age cohort who will be household representatives vary between

people of different ages, and the rates also vary over time. HRRs are published as part of the

household projections produced by CLG. The 2011 Census identified that the CLG 2008-based

household projections had significantly overestimated the number of households. Nevertheless, this

had been anticipated and the methodology report published to accompany the 2008-based

projections acknowledged (page 10):

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“Labour Force Survey (LFS) data suggests that there have been some steep falls in

household representative rates for some age groups since the 2001 Census … this can only be

truly assessed once the 2011 Census results are available.”

3.99 The CLG 2012 based household projections technical document confirmed the findings (page 24):

“At the present time the results from the Census 2011 show that the 2008-based projections

were overestimating the rate of household formation and support the evidence from the

Labour Force Survey that household representative rates for some (particularly younger) age

groups have fallen markedly since the 2001 Census.”

3.100 Prior to the publication of CLG 2012-based household projections, Inspectors had been keen to avoid

perpetuating any possible “recessionary impact” associated with the lower formation rates suggested

by the interim data. The 2012-based household projections published in February 2015 incorporated

far more data from the 2011 Census which has now been incorporated into the 2014-based household

projections, which provide data for the 25-year period 2014-39 based on long-term demographic

trends. The household representative projections use a combination of two fitted trends through the

available Census points (1971, 1981, 1991, 2001 and 2011).

3.101 Ludi Simpson (Professor of Population Studies at the University of Manchester and the originator and

designer of the PopGroup demographic modelling software) considered the CLG household

projections in an article published in Town and Country Planning (December 2014):

“Although it is sometimes claimed that the current household projections are based on the

experience of changes between 2001 and 2011, this is true only of the allocation of

households to household types in the second stage of the projections. The total numbers of

households in England and in each local authority are projected on the basis of 40 years of

trends in household formation, from 1971 to 2011.”

3.102 It is possible to understand the impact of the new household representative rates through applying

the 2012-based rates and the 2008-based and interim 2011-based rates to the same population. Using

the household population data in the 2012-based projections for the 10-year period 2011-2021 (the

only years where household representative rates are available from all three projections), the 2012-

based rates show an annual average growth of 218,600 households across England. This compares to

241,600 households using the 2008-based rates and 204,600 households using the interim 2011-based

rates. Therefore, the 2012-based rates yield household growth that is 7% higher than the interim

2011-based rates and only 10% lower than the 2008-based rates. At a local level, a third of local

authorities have 2012-based rates that are closer to 2008-based rates than the interim 2011-based

rates.

3.103 The 2014-based household projections supersede the 2012-based projections (which in turn

superseded both the 2008-based projections and the interim 2011-based projections). The changes

since 2008 were anticipated and these reflect real demographic trends, and therefore we should not

adjust these further; although the extent to which housing supply may have affected the historic rate

is one of the reasons that we also consider market signals when determining the OAN for housing.

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Household Projections 3.104 Through applying the CLG 2014-based household representative rates to the household population,

we established the projected number of additional households. The projected increase in households

for Gateshead is summarised in Figure 48 and for Newcastle upon Tyne is summarised in Figure 49.

3.105 Figure 48 and Figure 49 also provides an estimate of dwelling numbers, which takes account of

vacancies and second homes. The Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne JCS used a vacancy rate of 3%

for both authorities, but for this SHMA we have used a rate of 3.03% for Gateshead and 2.29% for

Newcastle upon Tyne, derived from CLG Live Tables LT615 and LT100 to reflect more up to date

information.

3.106 We would note that the St Chads report which underwrote the Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

JCS projected by 2015 that the number of households in Newcastle upon Tyne would be 121,000. This

is clearly around 2,800 lower than the adjusted population set out in this SHMA. As discussed earlier,

the population of Newcastle upon Tyne has clearly grown much more quickly than was anticipated

between 2010-15 with a sharp grow in student numbers at the forefront of this growth. The evidence

points to a much more rapid growth over the period 2010-15 than was anticipated, but the anticipated

plateau in student numbers should see this growth stabilise at a lower level.

Figure 48: Projected households and dwellings over the 15-year period 2015-30 for Gateshead

Area Total Net change 2015-30

2015 2030 15-year change Annual average

CLG 2014-based projection

Households 90,226 96,632 6,406 427

Dwellings 93,043 99,649 6,606 440

SHMA 10-year trend (2005-15)

Households 91,068 98,420 7,352 490

Dwellings 93,916 101,498 7,582 505

Figure 49: Projected households and dwellings over the 15-year period 2015-30 for Newcastle upon Tyne

Area Total Net change 2015-30

2015 2030 15-year change Annual average

CLG 2014-based projection

Households 122,424 137,471 15,047 1,003

Dwellings 125,287 140,686 15,399 1,027

SHMA 10-year trend (2005-15)

Households 123,800 139,938 16,138 1,076

Dwellings 126,699 143,215 16,516 1,102

3.107 Whilst the CLG 2014-based household projection identifies an increase of 427 households per year for

Gateshead (which represents a need for 440 dwellings per annum), the increase based on the SHMA

10-year trend is a higher 490 extra households annually (505 dpa). For Newcastle upon Tyne the CLG

2014-based household projection identifies an increase of 1,003 households per year (which

represents a need for 1,027 dwellings per annum), the increase based on the SHMA 10-year trend is a

higher 1,076 extra households annually (1,102 dpa).

3.108 This difference is mainly due to a higher projected increase in population in the SHMA projections.

The figures represent an increase on the starting point for Gateshead of 15% and for Newcastle upon

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Tyne of 7%. The figures for Gateshead are slightly lower than those in the Joint Core Strategy for

2015-30, while the figures for Newcastle upon Tyne are slightly higher. However, both figures are very

close to the existing policy positions in each authority with a rise across the two authorities of 2.1%.

Conclusions 3.109 PPG identifies that the starting point for estimating housing need is the CLG household projections,

and the latest data is the 2014-based projection. For the 15-year period 2015-30, these projections

suggest an overall growth of 6,406 households, equivalent to an average of 427 households per year

for Gateshead and 15,047 households, equivalent to an average of 1,003 household per year for

Newcastle upon Tyne (Figure 48 and Figure 49) .

3.110 ORS have reviewed and assessed household projections as part of this study, considering the Patient

Register, other data sources and migration based on 10-year trend 2005-15. On this basis, the official

population data show household numbers across the study area would increase over the 15-year Plan

period 2015-30 by an average of 490 per year in Gateshead and 1,076 per year in Newcastle upon

Tyne (Figure 48 and Figure 49). These figures provide the most appropriate demographic projection

on which to base the Objectively Assessed Need (OAN) for housing.

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4. Affordable Housing Need Identifying households who cannot afford market housing

Introduction 4.1 Before calculating the affordable housing needs for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne initial we

would like to cover the link between affordable housing and the OAN because we consider this to be a

central issue and the main source of the problems experienced by many Councils around affordable

housing need.

4.2 Paragraph 47 of the National Planning Policy Framework identifies that local planning authorities

should meet “the full, objectively assessed needs for market and affordable housing”. Furthermore,

paragraph 159 of the Framework identifies that they should “prepare a Strategic Housing Market

Assessment to assess their full housing needs” which identifies “the need for all types of housing,

including affordable housing”.

4.3 There have been a number of Judicial Reviews of Planning Inspector decisions which have helped to

clarify the relationship between the Full Objectively Assessed Need for housing and the need for

Affordable Housing:

Satnam Millennium v Warrington BC Judgement

Mr Justice Stewart surmised that “The NPPF requires full affordable housing needs to be identified

as part of the OAN” before concluding that “The assessed need for affordable housing was 477 dpa”

and “This assessed need was never expressed or included as part of the OAN” leading to the

judgement that there had not been compliance with Policy.

Oadby and Wigston v Bloor Homes Judgement

Mr Justice Hickinbottom concluded that “on the basis of the SHMA, the Council was working to a

purportedly policy off housing requirement figure of 80-100 dpa – but the SHMA itself assessed …

the full affordable housing need alone at a net 160 dpa” and therefore this was inevitably a “policy

on” figure.

Borough Council of Kings Lynn and West Norfolk v Elm Park Holdings Ltd Judgement

Mr Justice Dove stated “At the second stage described by the second sub-bullet point in paragraph

159, the needs for types and tenures of housing should be addressed. That includes the assessment

of the need for affordable housing … The Framework makes clear these needs should be addressed

in determining the FOAN”.

4.4 On this basis, it is clear that NPPF considers that the full, objectively assessed needs for housing will

include the need for affordable housing and this is now supported by a sequence of High Court

Judgements. Our view is that affordable housing need must be a component of the full, objectively

assessed needs for housing. This view is consistent with the Framework and the High Court

Judgements identified above, and forms the core of the analysis set out below.

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Planning Practice Guidance for Affordable Housing Needs 4.5 In March 2014 the Government issued (PPG)28 on the Assessment of Housing and Economic

Development Needs (March 2014). This includes advice on how calculate affordable housing needs at

ID 2a-022 to 029. ID2a-022 summarises the key steps required to calculated affordable housing needs:

How should affordable housing need be calculated?

Plan makers working with relevant colleagues within their local authority (e.g. housing, health and

social care departments) will need to estimate the number of households and projected households

who lack their own housing or live in unsuitable housing and who cannot afford to meet their

housing needs in the market.

This calculation involves adding together the current unmet housing need and the projected future

housing need and then subtracting this from the current supply of affordable housing stock.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-022

4.6 The PPG approach largely reflects that in chapter 5 the 2007 CLG SHMA Practice Guidance:

“The first part of this chapter explains how to estimate the number of current and future

households in housing need. It then looks at the available stock and requirements of existing

affordable housing tenants for different sizes of properties. In so doing, the approach

outlines how to develop an evidence base that can inform decisions about a range of policy

responses to housing need, including: setting targets for affordable housing, changing

allocations policies and using the private rented sector.” (page 40, SHMA Practice Guidance

Version 229)

4.7 The 2007 CLG SHMA Practice Guidance was in turn based on the approach set out in “Local Housing

Needs Assessment: A Guide to Good Practice”, published by the Department for the Environment,

Transport and the Regions (DETR) in 200030. This presented “a basic needs assessment model which all

local authorities should try to follow, so far as is practicable” (pages 21-22):

Table 2a: Outline of basic model

B: BACKLOG OF EXISTING NEED

(times a quota)

plus

N: NEWLY ARISING NEED

minus

S: SUPPLY OF AFFORDABLE UNITS

equals

NET SHORTFALL (SURPLUS)

affordable units per year

4.8 Given this context, it is evident that the key elements of the PPG approach reflect a long-established

approach for assessing affordable housing need (PPG ID 2a-022 cf. DETR 2000 Table 2a):

28 http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/blog/guidance/housing-and-economic-development-needs-assessments/ 29 “Strategic Housing Market Assessments Practice Guidance Version 2”, CLG 2007 (now rescinded) 30 “Local Housing Needs Assessment: A Guide to Good Practice”, DETR 2000 (now rescinded)

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» “This calculation involves adding together the current unmet housing need and the projected

future housing need” B: BACKLOG OF EXISTING NEED plus N: NEWLY ARISING NEED

» “and then subtracting this from the current supply of affordable housing stock”

minus S: SUPPLY OF AFFORDABLE UNITS equals NET SHORTFALL (SURPLUS)

Assessing Affordable Housing Needs 4.9 The standard approach to modelling affordable housing needs that was originally set out in the 2000

DETR Guide to Good Practice and which is reflected by PPG at ID 2a-022 to 029 comprises:

» A backlog of current unmet need for affordable housing, which includes:

- Established households (who already live in market or affordable housing that is unsuitable for

their needs); together with

- Suppressed households (such as concealed families or homeless households) who need their

own home, but are unable to afford market housing; plus the

» Projected future housing need for affordable housing (i.e. newly arising need), which is based

on a proportion of future household growth; less the

» Supply of affordable housing.

4.10 Any established households in affordable housing will vacate their existing dwelling if they move – so

no additional dwellings are needed and these needs will not add to the overall OAN. Nevertheless,

these households moves will impact on the overall mix of housing needed.

4.11 By definition, the full OAN will include all projected household growth for the area – so any proportion

of the growth where households need affordable housing will not add to the overall OAN.

4.12 The only households that would add to the overall OAN based on household projections would be

suppressed households (such as concealed families or homeless households) that are not captured by

the household projections. The needs of these households must be counted as part of the affordable

housing OAN, and therefore they must also be included within the overall OAN.

4.13 Given this context, all households that need affordable housing will already be included within the

household projections that inform the overall OAN (and will therefore not increase the overall OAN);

except for suppressed households counted within the current unmet need for affordable housing.

4.14 The Planning Advisory Service Good Plan Making Guide31 clearly identifies that SHMAs must take

account of any unmet need for housing that still exists at the start of the new plan period, which it

describes as ‘backlog’. This includes “for example, the needs of the homeless and other households

living in unacceptable accommodation”:

“Having an up-to-date, robust Strategic Housing Market Assessment should re-set the clock,

and therefore carrying forward under-provision from a previous plan period would be

‘double counting’. Make sure however that the Strategic Housing Market Assessment takes

account of ‘backlog’ which is unmet need for housing that still exists at the start of the new

plan period (for example, the needs of the homeless and other households living in

unacceptable accommodation). The Strategic Housing Market Assessment should show all

31 http://www.pas.gov.uk/documents/332612/6363137/Pages+from+FINAL+PAS+Good+Plan+Making+-6.pdf

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those in need. It is therefore vitally important to have a properly done Strategic Housing

Market Assessment that has the right scope.” (page 49)

4.15 Therefore, the PAS Good Plan Making Guide confirms that the only households included within the

affordable housing OAN that are not included within the household projections that inform the overall

OAN have to be counted separately when establishing the overall OAN. On this basis, all households

counted within the affordable housing OAN must also be counted within the overall OAN: affordable

housing need will not add to the overall OAN.

Modelling Affordable Needs 4.16 In relation to assessing future need, PPG identifies that needs should be assessed based on a “gross

annual estimate” (ID 2a-025, emphasis added); however in establishing “the total need for affordable

housing”, PPG identifies that the figure should be based on “the total net need” (ID 2a-029, emphasis

added). The PPG suggests that this should be based on a calculation to “subtract total available

[affordable housing] stock from total gross need” (ID 2a-029) – but not all households included within

the total gross need will be allocated affordable housing, so it is important to consider this when

deriving net need.

4.17 From a real-life perspective, any household that needs an affordable dwelling will also need a

dwelling; but equally important, any household that does not need a dwelling will not need an

affordable dwelling. Understanding this very simple concept is central to producing a robust needs

assessment.

4.18 The basic approach to assessing affordable housing need set out at PPG ID 2a-022 to 029 covers five

key groups of households: two relate to assessing current need (ID 2a-024) and three relate to

assessing future need (ID 2a-025). The table below describes each of these groups and differentiates

between their gross need and net need. It also sets out the impact that each group has on the

assessment of affordable housing need and the full OAN.

Group Description Impact on

needs assessment

Current needs of homeless and concealed households

These households should have a dwelling at the start of the Plan period, but they don’t and they are unable to afford market housing.

The needs of these households should be counted as affordable housing need and also within the full OAN.

Current needs of existing households

These households have a dwelling at the start of the Plan period, but it isn’t suitable for their needs (for example, due to overcrowding) and they are unable to afford market housing.

The needs of these households should be counted as affordable housing need, but as they already occupy a dwelling their need will not add to the full OAN.

Future needs of new households unable to afford: Newly forming households

These new households are projected to form based on past trends, but they are unable to afford market housing. This will represent the gross need.

The net need offsets those existing households previously assessed to need affordable housing that are projected to dissolve (either as existing households combine or following death of all household members).

Such households no longer need a dwelling, so they should also be discounted from the affordable housing need. It is important that this need is discounted regardless of whether or not the dissolving household previously occupied

The overall number of newly forming households and household dissolutions should be consistent with the household projections on which the full OAN is based.

This will ensure that the affordable housing need is consistent with the full OAN.

Whilst it is necessary to identify the gross need, it should only be the net need that is counted when establishing the need

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Group Description Impact on

needs assessment

affordable housing. for additional affordable housing.

Future needs of new households unable to afford: Migrant households

These new households are projected to move to the area based on past trends (in-migrant households), but they are unable to afford market housing. This will represent the gross need.

The net need offsets those existing households previously assessed to need affordable housing that are projected to move away from the area (out-migrant households).

Such households no longer need a dwelling in the area, so they should also be discounted from the affordable housing need. It is important that this need is discounted regardless of whether or not the out-migrant household previously occupied affordable housing.

The overall number of in-migrant households and out-migrant households should be consistent with the household projections on which the full OAN is based.

This will ensure that the affordable housing need is consistent with the full OAN.

Whilst it is necessary to identify the gross need, it should only be the net need that is counted when establishing the need for additional affordable housing.

Future needs of existing households falling into need

These households have a suitable dwelling that they are able to afford, but their circumstances change such that their existing dwelling is no longer suitable and they are unable to afford market housing. This will represent the gross need.

The net need offsets those existing households previously assessed to need affordable housing whose circumstances improve such that they no longer need affordable housing.

Such households will continue to occupy a dwelling in the area, but no longer need affordable housing. It is important that this affordable housing need is discounted regardless of whether or not the household occupied affordable housing.

The needs of these households should be counted as affordable housing need, but as they already occupy a dwelling their need will not add to the full OAN.

Whilst it is necessary to identify the gross need, it should only be the net need that is counted when establishing the need for additional affordable housing.

4.19 It is appropriate to recognise that PPG does not explicitly state that the needs of dissolving households

and out-migrant households that have been counted within the gross need for affordable housing

should be discounted from the net need, regardless of whether or not the household ever occupied

affordable housing. Nevertheless, such households will not need housing in the housing market area,

so it stands to reason that they will no longer need affordable housing either – otherwise these

households would be counted within the affordable housing need despite not being counted in the full

OAN. Based on the simple concept above, any household that does not need a dwelling will not need

an affordable dwelling – so these needs must be discounted when establishing the total need for

affordable housing, which should be based on the “total net need” (ID 2a-029).

4.20 Similarly, PPG does not explicitly state that the needs of existing households climbing out of need

should be discounted, regardless of whether or not the household ever occupied affordable housing.

Nevertheless, PPG identifies that “care should be taken … to include only those households who cannot

afford to access suitable housing in the market” (ID 2a-024); so it is evident that the needs of

households whose circumstances improve such that they can “afford to access suitable housing in the

market” should not be included in the total need for affordable housing.

4.21 Given this context, it is important to recognise that PPG does not provide a framework which either

could or should be applied mechanistically. Indeed, the PPG on housing and economic development

needs states at the outset:

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Can local planning authorities use a different methodology?

There is no one methodological approach or use of a particular dataset(s) that will provide a

definitive assessment of development need. But the use of this standard methodology set out in this

guidance is strongly recommended because it will ensure that the assessment findings are

transparently prepared. Local planning authorities may consider departing from the methodology,

but they should explain why their particular local circumstances have led them to adopt a different

approach where this is the case. The assessment should be thorough but proportionate, building

where possible on existing information sources outlined within the guidance.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-005

4.22 There are a number of areas where PPG does not provide specific guidance; such as the need to

consider commuting patterns when considering how employment trends are taken into account, and

the need to consider vacancies and second homes when establishing housing need based on

household projections. In this regard, in the Borough Council of Kings Lynn and West Norfolk v Elm

Park Holdings Ltd Judgement Mr Justice Dove stated:

41. The PPG does not provide any specific guidance on this point related to vacancies and

second homes. That is to my mind unsurprising, as it could not begin to address every

conceivable point which might arise in this exercise. However, I have no doubt that the

inclusion of vacancies and second homes is an adjustment based on statistical data of a kind

similar to those which are contemplated in the PPG. The absence of this issue from the PPG

does not therefore dissuade me from the view which I have reached.

4.23 Whilst PPG does not provide any specific guidance about the treatment of households that no longer

need housing in the housing market area that have been counted in the gross need for affordable

housing, it is still appropriate to discount their needs from the affordable housing need.

Backlog of Affordable Housing Needs for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne 4.24 Demographic projections provide the basis for identifying the Objectively Assessed Need for all types

of housing, including both market housing and affordable housing.

4.25 PPG notes that affordable housing need is based on households “who lack their own housing or live in

unsuitable housing and who cannot afford to meet their housing needs in the market” (paragraph 22)

and identifies a number of different types of household which may be included:

What types of households are considered in housing need?

The types of households to be considered in housing need are:

» Homeless households or insecure tenure (e.g. housing that is too expensive compared to

disposable income)

» Households where there is a mismatch between the housing needed and the actual dwelling

(e.g. overcrowded households)

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» Households containing people with social or physical impairment or other specific needs living in

unsuitable dwellings (e.g. accessed via steps) which cannot be made suitable in-situ

» Households that lack basic facilities (e.g. a bathroom or kitchen) and those subject to major

disrepair or that are unfit for habitation

» Households containing people with particular social needs (e.g. escaping harassment) which

cannot be resolved except through a move

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-023

4.26 PPG also suggests a number of data sources for assessing past trends and recording current estimates

for establishing the need for affordable housing (paragraph 24):

» Local authorities will hold data on the number of homeless households, those in

temporary accommodation and extent of overcrowding.

» The Census also provides data on concealed households and overcrowding which can be

compared with trends contained in the English Housing Survey.

» Housing registers and local authority and registered social landlord transfer lists will also

provide relevant information.

4.27 The following section considers each of these sources in turn, alongside other relevant statistics and

information that is available.

Past Trends and Current Estimates of the Need for Affordable Housing

Local Authority Data: Homeless Households and Temporary Accommodation 4.28 Local authorities hold data on the number of homeless households and those in temporary

accommodation. In both Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne, the annual number of households

accepted as being homeless and in priority need has seen a downward trend over the period 2005 to

2015. The current annual rate represents 2.2 presentations per 1,000 households in Gateshead and

1.3, presentations per 1,000 households in Newcastle upon Tyne which is lower than the equivalent

rate for England (2.4 per 1,000).

4.29 There has also been a reduction in households living in temporary accommodation from Quarter 1

2005 to Quarter 1 2015 and fewer households accepted as homeless without temporary

accommodation provided. Of the households in temporary accommodation in Quarter 1 2015, 11

were accommodated in bed & breakfast accommodation or hostels and a further 45 were in private

sector leased stock or other. This time period represents the start date for this assessment.

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Figure 50: Households accepted as homeless and in priority need (Source: CLG P1E returns March 2005 and March 2015)

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne England

2015 2005 2015 2005 2015

Number accepted homeless and in priority need during year

739 196 906 161 -

Rate per 1,000 households 8.8 2.2 7.7 1.3 2.4

Households in temporary accommodation

Bed and breakfast 1 1 - - -

Hostels 23 1 54 9 -

Local Authority or RSL stock - 18 - 25 -

Private sector leased (by LA or RSL)

- 1 - - -

Other (including private landlord)

- 1 - - -

TOTAL 24 22 54 34 -

Rate per 1,000 households 0.3 0.2 0.5 0.3 2.9

Households accepted as homeless but without temporary accommodation provided

185 33 204 11 -

4.30 It is evident that homelessness has not become significantly worse in neither Gateshead nor Newcastle

upon Tyne over the last decade, and might be significantly better, but this does not necessarily mean

that fewer households risk becoming homeless. This section of the report only considers households

in current need and subsequent sections consider households who may fall in to need in the future.

Housing advice services provided by the council limit the number of homeless presentations, through

helping people threatened with homelessness find housing before they become homeless. Housing

allocation policies can also avoid the need for temporary housing if permanent housing is available

sooner; however, many households facing homelessness are now offered private rented housing.

4.31 Under current legislation, the Local Authority’s homelessness prevention duty can be discharged by

facilitating access to private rented accommodation, where appropriate and reasonable. While this

provision aims to reduce the pressures on the social housing stock, an indirect result is that there are

further demands on the private rented sector, and potential for vulnerable people to be housed in

poorer housing stock, although the PRS may also offer additional choice such as choice of area. There

are also additional burdens imposed on Local Authorities under the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.

Census Data: Concealed Households and Overcrowding 4.32 The Census provides detailed information about households and housing in the local area. This

includes information about concealed families (i.e. couples or lone parents) and sharing households.

These households lack the sole use of basic facilities (e.g. a bathroom or kitchen) and have to share

these with their “host” household (in the case of concealed families) or with other households (for

those sharing).

Concealed Families

4.33 The number of concealed families living with households in Gateshead increased from 437 to 727 over

the 10-year period 2001-11 (Figure 51), an increase of 290 households (66%). The equivalent growth

in Newcastle upon Tyne was 453 households (66%).

4.34 Although many concealed families do not want separate housing (in particular where they have

chosen to live together as extended families), others are forced to live together due to affordability

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difficulties or other constraints – and these concealed families will not be counted as part of the CLG

household projections. Concealed families with older family representatives will often be living with

another family in order to receive help or support due to poor health. Concealed families with

younger family representatives are more likely to demonstrate un-met need for housing. When we

consider the growth of families over the period 2001-11, 77% of the growth in Gateshead and 84% of

the growth in Newcastle upon Tyne had family representatives aged under 55, with substantial growth

amongst those aged under 35 in particular (in line with national trends).

Figure 51: Concealed families by age of family representative (Source: Census 2001 and 2011)

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

2001 2011 Net

change 2001-11

2001 2011 Net

change 2001-11

Aged under 25 87 239 +152 129 295 +166

Aged 25 to 34 167 201 +34 218 369 +151

Aged 35 to 44 62 64 +2 87 97 +11

Aged 45 to 54 23 58 +35 48 99 +51

Sub-total aged under 55 339 562 +223 481 860 +379

Aged 55 to 64 36 53 +17 70 102 +32

Aged 65 to 74 47 79 +32 106 112 +6

Aged 75 or over 15 33 +18 28 64 +36

Sub-total aged 55 or over 98 165 +67 204 278 +74

All Concealed Families 437 727 +290 685 1,138 +453

Sharing Households

4.35 The number of sharing households increased from 146 to 155 in Newcastle upon Tyne over the 10-

year period 2001-11 (Figure 52), but fell in Gateshead. Sharing households fall in to a very specific

category of households who share facilities, but have their own accommodation within a property.

Figure 52: Shared Dwellings and Sharing Households (Source: Census 2001 and 2011)

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

2001 2011 Net

change 2001 2011

Net change

Number of shared dwellings 37 7 -30 60 50 -10

Number of household spaces in shared dwellings 124 20 -104 155 183 +28

All Sharing Households 118 17 -101 146 155 +9

Household spaces in shared dwellings with no usual residents

6 3 -3 9 28 +19

4.36 Figure 53 shows that the number of multi-adult households living in the area increased from 2,105 to

3,205 households over the same period in Gateshead, an increase of 1,100 with a 3,775 increase in

Newcastle upon Tyne. These people also have to share basic facilities, but are considered to be a

single household as they also share a living room, sitting room or dining area. This includes Houses in

Multiple Occupation (HMOs) with shared facilities, as well as single people living together as a group

and individuals with lodgers.

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Figure 53: Multi-adult Households (Source: Census 2001 and 2011)

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

2001 2011 Net

change 2001-11

2001 2011 Net

change 2001-11

Owned 1,153 1,433 +280 2,301 2,203 -98

Private rented 283 1,107 +824 4,093 8,004 +3,911

Social rented 669 665 -4 1383 1345 -38

All Households 2,105 3,205 +1,100 7,777 11,552 +3,775

4.37 The growth in multi-adult households was focused particularly in the private rented sector, with an

increase in single persons choosing to live with friends together with others living in HMOs. This

growth accounts for 75% of the growth in Gateshead and more than 100% of the growth in Newcastle

upon Tyne

4.38 Nevertheless, shared facilities is a characteristic of HMOs and many people living in this type of

housing will only be able to afford shared accommodation (either with or without housing benefit

support). Extending the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) Shared Accommodation Rate (SAR) allowance

to cover all single persons up to 35 years of age has meant that many more young people will only be

able to afford shared housing, and this has further increased demand for housing such as HMOs.

4.39 There is therefore likely to be a continued (and possibly growing) role for HMOs in housing under 35’s,

with more of the existing housing stock possibly being converted. Given this context, it would not be

appropriate to consider households to need affordable housing only on the basis of them currently

sharing facilities (although there may be other reasons why they would be considered as an affordable

housing need).

Overcrowding

4.40 The 2011 Census also provides detailed information about occupancy which provides a measure of

whether a household’s accommodation is overcrowded or under occupied:

“There are two measures of occupancy rating, one based on the number of rooms in a

household's accommodation, and one based on the number of bedrooms. The ages of the

household members and their relationships to each other are used to derive the number of

rooms/bedrooms they require, based on a standard formula. The number of

rooms/bedrooms required is subtracted from the number of rooms/bedrooms in the

household's accommodation to obtain the occupancy rating. An occupancy rating of -1

implies that a household has one fewer room/bedroom than required, whereas +1 implies

that they have one more room/bedroom than the standard requirement.”

4.41 When considering the number of rooms required, the ONS use the following approach to calculate the

room requirement:

» A one person household is assumed to require three rooms (two common rooms and a

bedroom); and

» Where there are two or more residents it is assumed that they require a minimum of two

common rooms plus one bedroom for:

– each couple (as determined by the relationship question)

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– each lone parent

– any other person aged 16 or over

– each pair aged 10 to 15 of the same sex

– each pair formed from any other person aged 10 to 15 with a child aged under 10 of the

same sex

– each pair of children aged under 10 remaining

– each remaining person (either aged 10 to 15 or under 10).

4.42 For Gateshead, overcrowding increased from 5,145 to 5,488 households (an increase of 343) over the

10-year period 2001-11 (Figure 54). This represents a percentage growth of 1%, which is much lower

than comparator areas; Leeds (17%), Liverpool and Knowsley (18%), Manchester and Salford (52%)

and Sheffield (50%). It is also lower than the national increase for England (23%).

4.43 When considered by tenure, overcrowding has reduced by 205 households in the owner occupied

sector and reduced by 288 households in the social rented sector; however the number of households

overcrowded in the private rented sector has increased from 545 to 1,381, a growth of 836

households over the 10-year period. The percentage of overcrowded households in the private rented

sector has also increased from 8.5% to 11.6% (a percentage increase of 35%).

4.44 For Newcastle upon Tyne, overcrowding increased from 8,625 to 10,642 households (an increase of

2,017) over the 10-year period 2001-11 (Figure 54), but this has not resulted in any significant increase

in complaints or notices being served in relation to overcrowded households. This represents a

percentage growth of 17%, which is similar to the comparator areas of Leeds (17%) and Liverpool and

Knowsley (18%). However, the percentage growth for Newcastle upon Tyne is lower than comparator

areas Manchester and Salford (52%) and Sheffield (50%) and is also lower than the national increase

for England (23%).

4.45 When considered by tenure, overcrowding has reduced by 159 households in the owner occupied

sector and reduced by 165 households in the social rented sector; however the number of households

overcrowded in the private rented sector has increased from 1,962 to 4,303, a growth of 2,341

households over the 10-year period. The percentage of overcrowded households in the private rented

sector has also increased from 13.3% to 18.0% (a percentage increase of 35%).

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Figure 54: Proportion of overcrowded households 2011 and change 2001-11 by tenure (Note: Overcrowded households are

considered to have an occupancy rating of -1 or less. Source: UK Census of Population 2001 and 2011)

Occupancy rating (rooms) Occupancy rating (bedrooms)

2011 2001 2011 Net change

2001-11

N % N % N % N %

GATESHEAD

Owned 1,591 3.2% 1,386 2.7% -205 -18% 1,021 2.0%

Private rented 545 8.5% 1,381 11.6% +836 +35% 707 5.9%

Social rented 3,009 10.4% 2,721 10.9% -288 +5% 1,375 5.5%

All Households 5,145 6.1% 5,488 6.2% +343 +1% 3,103 3.5%

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

Owned 1,903 3.2% 1,744 3.0% -159 -7% 1,354 2.3%

Private rented 1,962 13.3% 4,303 18.0% +2,341 +35% 1,856 7.8%

Social rented 4,760 12.8% 4,595 13.2% -165 +3% 1,953 5.6%

All Households 8,625 7.8% 10,642 9.1% +2,017 +17% 5,163 4.4%

ENGLAND

Owned - 3.3% - 3.3% - -3% - 2.3%

Private rented - 16.4% - 20.2% - +23% - 8.8%

Social rented - 14.9% - 16.9% - +14% - 8.9%

All Households - 7.1% - 8.7% - +23% - 4.6%

All Households

Leeds - 7.8% - 9.1% - +17% - 3.7%

Liverpool and Knowsley - 7.5% - 8.8% - +18% - 4.3%

Manchester and Salford - 9.3% - 14.1% - +52% - 6.5%

Sheffield - 6.3% - 9.5% - +50% - 4.7%

English Housing Survey Data

Overcrowding

4.46 The English Housing Survey (EHS) does not provide information about individual local authorities, but

it does provide a useful context about these indicators in terms of national trends between Census

years.

4.47 The measure of overcrowding used by the EHS provides a consistent measure over time however the

definition differs from both occupancy ratings provided by the Census. The EHS approach32 is based

on a “bedroom standard” which assumes that adolescents aged 10-20 of the same sex will share a

bedroom, and only those aged 21 or over are assumed to require a separate bedroom (whereas the

approach used by the ONS for the Census assumes a separate room for those aged 16 or over):

“The ‘bedroom standard’ is used as an indicator of occupation density. A standard number of

bedrooms is calculated for each household in accordance with its age/sex/marital status

composition and the relationship of the members to one another. A separate bedroom is

allowed for each married or cohabiting couple, any other person aged 21 or over, each pair

32 https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/501065/EHS_Headline_report_2014-15.pdf

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of adolescents aged 10-20 of the same sex, and each pair of children under 10. Any unpaired

person aged 10-20 is notionally paired, if possible, with a child under 10 of the same sex, or,

if that is not possible, he or she is counted as requiring a separate bedroom, as is any

unpaired child under 10.

“Households are said to be overcrowded if they have fewer bedrooms available than the

notional number needed. Households are said to be under-occupying if they have two or

more bedrooms more than the notional needed.”

4.48 Nationally, overcrowding rates increased for households in both social and private rented housing until

2011, although the proportion of overcrowded households has declined in both sectors since 2011.

Overcrowding rates for owner occupiers have remained relatively stable since 1995. The national

picture is likely to be reflected in the local circumstances for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Figure 55: Trend in overcrowding rates by tenure, England (Note: Based on three-year moving average, up to and including the

labelled date. Source: Survey of English Housing 1995-96 to 2007-08; English Housing Survey 2008-09 onwards)

4.49 Whilst the EHS definition of overcrowding is more stringent than the Census, the measurement closer

reflects the definition of statutory overcrowding that was set out by Part X of the Housing Act 1985

and is consistent with statutory Guidance33 that was issued by CLG in 2012 to which authorities must

have regard when exercising their functions under Part 6 of the 1996 Housing Act (as amended).

4.50 This Guidance, “Allocation of accommodation: Guidance for local housing authorities in England”,

recommends that authorities should use the bedroom standard when assessing whether or not

households are overcrowded for the purposes of assessing housing need:

4.8 The Secretary of State takes the view that the bedroom standard is an appropriate measure

of overcrowding for allocation purposes, and recommends that all housing authorities should

adopt this as a minimum. The bedroom standard allocates a separate bedroom to each:

– married or cohabiting couple

– adult aged 21 years or more

33 https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/5918/2171391.pdf

0.0%

1.0%

2.0%

3.0%

4.0%

5.0%

6.0%

7.0%

8.0%

Owner occupiers Social renters Private renters All households

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– pair of adolescents aged 10-20 years of the same sex

– pair of children aged under 10 years regardless of sex

The bedroom standard therefore provides the most appropriate basis for assessing overcrowding. By

considering the Census and EHS data for England, together with the Census data for Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne, we can estimate overcrowding using the bedroom standard. Figure 56 and

Figure 57 set out this calculation based on the Census occupancy rating for both rooms and bedrooms.

Based on the bedroom standard, it is estimated that 571 owner occupied, 260 private rented and 933

social rented households were overcrowded in Gateshead at the start of the Plan period and that 703

owner occupied, 473 private rented and 1,409 social rented households were overcrowded in

Newcastle upon Tyne at the start of the Plan period. These figures are lower than the 2011 Census

results for each area because the HES shows lower rates of overcrowding and also student households

in the private rented sector have been excluded from this calculation given that their needs are

assumed to be transient. The change in level of overcrowding between the 2011 and 2015 is assessed

by applying the increase in overcrowding shown by the EHS between 2011 and 2015.

Figure 56: Estimate of the number of overcrowded households in Gateshead by tenure based on the bedroom standard (Source:

EHS; UK Census of Population 2011)

Owned Private Rented

Social Rented

Totals

ENGLAND

EHS bedroom standard 2011 Percentage of households overcrowded [A]

1.3% 5.6% 7.3% -

Census occupancy rating Bed

rooms Rooms

Bed rooms

Rooms Bed

rooms Rooms

Percentage of households overcrowded [B] 2.3% 3.3% 8.8% 20.2% 8.9% 16.9% -

Proportion of these overcrowded households based on bedroom standard [C = A ÷ B]

57% 40% 64% 28% 83% 43% -

GATESHEAD

Census occupancy rating Bed

rooms Rooms

Bed rooms

Rooms Bed

rooms Rooms

Number of overcrowded households [D] 1,021 1,386 707 1,381 1,375 2,721 -

Full-time student households [E] 121 129 251 405 145 155 -

Overcrowded households (excluding students) [F = D - E]

900 1,257 456 976 1,230 2,566 -

Estimate of overcrowded households based on the bedroom standard [G = C × F]

513 503 292 273 1,021 1,103 -

Estimate of overcrowded households in 2011 based on the bedroom standard (average)

508 283 1,062 1,853

EHS bedroom standard Change in overcrowding from 2011 to 2015

+12% -8% -12% -

Estimate of overcrowded households in 2015 based on the bedroom standard

5

71 260 933 1,764

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Figure 57: Estimate of the number of overcrowded households in Newcastle upon Tyne by tenure based on the bedroom

standard (Source: EHS; UK Census of Population 2011)

Owned Private Rented

Social Rented

Totals

ENGLAND

EHS bedroom standard 2011 Percentage of households overcrowded [A]

1.3% 5.6% 7.3% -

Census occupancy rating Bed

rooms Rooms

Bed rooms

Rooms Bed

rooms Rooms

Percentage of households overcrowded [B] 2.3% 3.3% 8.8% 20.2% 8.9% 16.9% -

Proportion of these overcrowded households based on bedroom standard [C = A ÷ B]

57% 40% 64% 28% 83% 43% -

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

Census occupancy rating Bed

rooms Rooms

Bed rooms

Rooms Bed

rooms Rooms

Number of overcrowded households [D] 1,354 1,744 1,856 4,303 1,953 4,595 -

Full-time student households [E] 212 245 1,159 2,228 281 361 -

Overcrowded households (excluding students) [F = D - E]

1,142 1,499 697 2,075 1,672 4,234 -

Estimate of overcrowded households based on the bedroom standard [G = C × F]

651 600 446 581 1,388 1,821 -

Estimate of overcrowded households in 2011 based on the bedroom standard (average)

625 514 1,604 2,743

EHS bedroom standard Change in overcrowding from 2011 to 2015

+12% -8% -12% -

Estimate of overcrowded households in 2015 based on the bedroom standard

703 473 1,409 2,585

Housing Condition and Disrepair

4.51 The EHS also provides useful information about housing condition. The Decent Homes Standard

provides a broad measure which was intended to be a minimum standard that all housing should

meet, and that to do so should be easy and affordable. It was determined that in order to meet the

standard a dwelling must achieve all of the following, but in practice interventions tend to be based

upon the Housing Health and Safety Rating System only:

» Be above the legal minimum standard for housing (currently the Housing Health and

Safety Rating System, HHSRS); and

» Be in a reasonable state of repair; and

» Have reasonably modern facilities (such as kitchens and bathrooms) and services; and

» Provide a reasonable degree of thermal comfort (effective insulation and efficient

heating).

4.52 If a dwelling fails any one of these criteria, it is considered to be “non-decent”. A detailed definition of

the criteria and their sub-categories are described in the ODPM guidance: “A Decent Home – The

definition and guidance for implementation” June 2006.

4.53 Figure 58 shows the national trends in non-decent homes by tenure. It is evident that conditions have

improved year-on-year (in particular due to energy efficiency initiatives), however whilst social rented

properties are more likely to comply with the standard, over a quarter of the private rented sector

(28.6%) currently remains non-decent. This is a trend that tends to be evident at a local level in most

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areas where there are concentrations of private rented housing34, and there remains a need to

improve the quality of housing provided for households living in the private rented sector.

Figure 58: Trend in non-decent homes by tenure, England (Source: English House Condition Survey 2006 to 2007; English

Housing Survey 2008 onwards)

Housing Register Data 4.54 The local authority housing register and transfer lists are managed through a Choice Based Lettings

scheme. Households apply for a move via the scheme and ‘bid’ for homes along with applicants from

various sources, including homeless households, housing register and transfer applicants.

4.55 Figure 59 shows the trend in households on the housing register over the period since 2001. Whilst

the overall number of households on the housing register has varied over the period, as at April 2015

there were 8,000 applicants in 2015 in Gateshead at the base date of this SHMA and 5,700 in

Newcastle upon Tyne. Fluctuations in the numbers on the registers between 2012 and 2015 are

shown in Figure 60 and Figure 61. It should be noted that many people on the register are already in

council housing and are seeking transfers, while others have been on the register for many years

without bidding on any properties, so the figures are likely to be an over-estimate of the true level of

current need.

4.56 Figure 59 also shows the number recorded in a reasonable preference category since 2007.

Reasonable preference categories are defined in the Housing Act 1996, which requires “reasonable

preference” for housing to be given to people who are:

» Legally homeless;

» Living in unsatisfactory housing (as defined by the Housing Act 2004);

» Need to move on medical/welfare grounds; or

34

This was shown in a stock condition report produced for the Gateshead in 2013. ‘Dwelling level housing stock modelling and database for Gateshead Council, BRE, May 2013.

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

45%

50%

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Owner occupied Social rented Private rented All dwellings

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» Need to move to a particular area to avoid hardship.

4.57 However, the number in a reasonable preference category has been falling in Gateshead, but did rise

until 2014 in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Figure 59: Number of households on the local authority housing register 2001-16 (Note: Solid line shows total number of

households; dotted line shows number of households in a reasonable preference category. Source: LAHS and HSSA

returns to CLG)

4.58 Figure 60 and Figure 61 provide further detailed information for 2012-2015.

Figure 60: Number of households on the local authority housing register at 1st

April (Source: LAHS returns to CLG)

GATESHEAD 2012 2013 2014 2015

Total households on the housing waiting list 11,854 7,394 10,160 7,984

Total households in a reasonable preference category 1,353 621 620 328

People currently living in temporary accommodation who have been accepted as being homeless (or threatened with homelessness)

42 87 108 48

Other people who are homeless within the meaning given in Part VII of the Housing Act (1996), regardless of whether there is a statutory duty to house them

244 233 280 96

People occupying insanitary or overcrowded housing or otherwise living in unsatisfactory housing conditions

327 137 132 82

People who need to move on medical or welfare grounds, including grounds relating to a disability

369 211 165 128

People who need to move to a particular locality in the district of the authority, where failure to meet that need would cause hardship (to themselves or to others)

0 0 0 0

0

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

10,000

12,000

14,000

16,000

18,000

20,000

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

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Figure 61: Number of households on the local authority housing register at 1st April (Source: LAHS returns to CLG)

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE 2012 2013 2014 2015

Total households on the housing waiting list 9,334 2,935 6,111 5,700

Total households in a reasonable preference category 205 278 924 780

People currently living in temporary accommodation who have been accepted as being homeless (or threatened with homelessness)

18 0 0 17

Other people who are homeless within the meaning given in Part VII of the Housing Act (1996), regardless of whether there is a statutory duty to house them

0 62 64 14

People occupying insanitary or overcrowded housing or otherwise living in unsatisfactory housing conditions

3 26 95 90

People who need to move on medical or welfare grounds, including grounds relating to a disability

126 107 324 335

People who need to move to a particular locality in the district of the authority, where failure to meet that need would cause hardship (to themselves or to others)

0 3 4 9

4.59 The number of people recorded as “occupying insanitary or overcrowded housing or otherwise living in

unsatisfactory housing conditions” was 82 in Gateshead and 90 in Newcastle upon Tyne in 2015. We

previously estimated that there were around 1,764 overcrowded households in Gateshead and 2,585

in Newcastle upon Tyne, based on the bedroom standard (Figure 56). Therefore, there are likely to be

many households who are not registered for affordable housing despite being overcrowded. This will

partly reflect their affordability (for example, most owner occupiers would not qualify for rented

affordable housing due to the equity in their current home) whilst others may only be temporarily

overcrowded and will have sufficient space available once a concealed family is able to leave and

establish an independent household.

4.60 When considering the types of household to be considered in housing need, the PPG also identified

“households containing people with social or physical impairment or other specific needs living in

unsuitable dwellings (e.g. accessed via steps) which cannot be made suitable in-situ” and “households

containing people with particular social needs (e.g. escaping harassment) which cannot be resolved

except through a move”. It is only through the housing register that we are able to establish current

estimates of need for these types of household, and not all would necessarily be counted within a

reasonable preference category. The housing register does not capture the need of households who

are currently living in the private sectors and who are not looking for social housing, but by the fact

that that they are not looking at social housing suggests that these households can meet their own

needs in the private sector, either through adaptation, buying or renting. However, the housing

register also doesn’t capture needs from those currently in the private sector who are receiving LHA,

because the benefits they are receiving are allowing them to afford their own housing costs.

4.61 In 2015 there were 128 people in Gateshead and 335 in Newcastle upon Tyne registered “who need to

move on medical or welfare grounds, including grounds relating to a disability” with 0 in Gateshead

and 9 in Newcastle upon Tyne registered “who need to move to a particular locality in the district of

the authority, where failure to meet that need would cause hardship (to themselves or to others)”.

However, some of these households are seeking to move within the social housing sector and hence

will also be included in the supply of dwelling vacated.

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Households Unable to Afford their Housing Costs 4.62 The PPG emphasises in a number of paragraphs that affordable housing need should only include

those households that are unable to afford their housing costs:

Plan makers … will need to estimate the number of households and projected households who lack

their own housing or live in unsuitable housing and who cannot afford to meet their housing needs

in the market (ID 2a-022, emphasis added)

Plan makers should establish unmet (gross) need for affordable housing by assessing past trends

and recording current estimates of … those that cannot afford their own homes. Care should be

taken to avoid double-counting … and to include only those households who cannot afford to access

suitable housing in the market (ID 2a-024, emphasis added)

Projections of affordable housing need will need to take into account new household formation, the

proportion of newly forming households unable to buy or rent in the market area (ID 2a-025,

emphasis added)

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-022-025

4.63 Housing benefit data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides reliable, consistent

and detailed information about the number of families that are unable to afford their housing costs in

each local authority area. Data was published annually from 2001-02 to 2006-07 which identified the

total number of claimants in receipt of housing benefit, and more detailed information has been

available since 2008-09 which includes more detailed information about claimants and the tenure of

their home.

Housing Benefit Claimants in Gateshead

4.64 Figure 62 shows the trend in the number of housing benefit claimants in Gateshead. Based on the

Census 2011 tenure this represents over 40% of households in the private rented sector and around

70% in the social rented sector.

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Figure 62: Number of claimants in receipt of housing benefit in Gateshead by tenure (Source: DWP. Note: No breakdown by

tenure is available for the period 2001-07 and data for 2007-08 was not published)

4.65 Considering the information on tenure, it is evident that the number of claimants in social rented

housing reduced from 16,500 to 16,300 over the period 2008-09 to 2014-15 – a reduction of 200

families (1%). Over the same period the number of claimants in private rented housing increased from

3,800 to 5,200 families – an increase of 1,500 families (39%).

Housing Benefit Claimants in Newcastle upon Tyne

4.66 Figure 62 shows the trend in the number of housing benefit claimants in Newcastle upon Tyne. Based

on the Census 2011 tenure this represents around 25% of households in the private rented sector and

over 70% in the social rented sector.

16.5 17.0 17.2 17.4 17.3 16.6 16.3 15.9

3.8 4.5 4.6 4.9 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.0

20.9 21.2 20.8 19.9 19.2

20.1 20.3 21.5 21.8 22.3 22.5 21.8 21.5 20.9

-1.0

4.0

9.0

14.0

19.0

24.0

Tho

usa

nd

s

Total claimants Social rented Private rented

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Figure 63: Number of claimants in receipt of housing benefit in Newcastle upon Tyne by tenure (Source: DWP. Note: No

breakdown by tenure is available for the period 2001-07 and data for 2007-08 was not published)

4.67 Considering the information on tenure, it is evident that the number of claimants in social rented

housing reduced from 24,900 to 24,800 over the period 2008-09 to 2014-15 – a reduction of 100

families (0.3%). Over the same period the number of claimants in private rented housing increased

from 4,700 to 7,100 families – an increase of around 2,300 families (8%).

4.68 The information published by DWP provides the detailed information needed for understanding the

number of households unable to afford their housing costs. Of course, there will be other households

occupying affordable housing who do not need housing benefit to pay discounted social or affordable

rents but who would not be able to afford market rents. Similarly there will be others who are not

claiming housing benefit support as they have stayed living with parents or other family or friends and

not formed independent households. However, providing that appropriate adjustments are made to

take account of these exceptions, the DWP data provides the most reliable basis for establishing the

number of households unable to afford their housing costs and estimating affordable housing need.

Establishing Affordable Housing Need 4.69 In establishing the Objectively Assessed Need for affordable housing, it is necessary to draw together

the full range of information that has already been considered in this report.

4.70 PPG sets out the framework for this calculation, considering both the current unmet housing need and

the projected future housing need in the context of the existing affordable housing stock:

How should affordable housing need be calculated?

This calculation involves adding together the current unmet housing need and the projected future

housing need and then subtracting this from the current supply of affordable housing stock.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-022

24.9 25.4 25.6 25.7 25.8 25.0 24.8 23.9

4.7 5.7 6.3 6.7 7.2 7.3 7.1 6.8

30.9 30.7 29.5 29.5

28.1 28.4 29.6

31.1 31.9 32.4 33.0 32.2 31.9 30.8

-1.0

4.0

9.0

14.0

19.0

24.0

29.0

34.0

Tho

usa

nd

s

Total claimants Social rented Private rented

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Current Unmet Need for Affordable Housing 4.71 In terms of establishing the current unmet need for affordable housing, the PPG draws attention again

to those types of households considered to be in housing need; whilst also emphasising the need to

avoid double-counting and including only those households unable to afford their own housing.

How should the current unmet gross need for affordable housing be calculated?

Plan makers should establish unmet (gross) need for affordable housing by assessing past trends

and recording current estimates of:

» the number of homeless households;

» the number of those in priority need who are currently housed in temporary accommodation;

» the number of households in overcrowded housing;

» the number of concealed households;

» the number of existing affordable housing tenants in need (i.e. householders currently housed in

unsuitable dwellings);

» the number of households from other tenures in need and those that cannot afford their own

homes.

Care should be taken to avoid double-counting, which may be brought about with the same

households being identified on more than one transfer list, and to include only those households

who cannot afford to access suitable housing in the market.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-024

4.72 Earlier sections of this chapter set out the past trends and current estimates for relevant households

based on the data sources identified by PPG (using the start of the Plan period in 2015 as a reference

point where possible). Although this evidence does not provide the basis upon which to establish

whether or not households can afford to access suitable housing, we believe that it is reasonable to

assume that certain households will be unable to afford housing, otherwise they would have found a

more suitable home.

Establishing the Current Unmet Need for Affordable Housing

4.73 Households assumed to be unable to afford housing include:

» All households that are currently homeless;

» All those currently housed in temporary accommodation; and

» People in a reasonable preference category on the housing register, where their needs have not already been counted.

4.74 Given this context, our analysis counts the needs of all of these households when establishing the

Objectively Assessed Need for affordable housing at a base date of 2015.

4.75 Only a small share of households currently living in overcrowded housing (based on the bedroom

standard) are registered in a reasonable preference category, which will partly reflect their

affordability. It is likely that most owner occupiers would not qualify for rented affordable housing

(due to the equity in their current home); but it is reasonable to assume that households living in

overcrowded rented housing are unlikely to be able to afford housing, otherwise they would have

found a more suitable home.

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4.76 Our analysis counts the needs of all households living in overcrowded rented housing when

establishing the OAN for affordable housing (which could marginally overstate the affordable housing

need) but it does not count the needs of owner occupiers living in overcrowded housing (which can

be offset against any previous over-counting). Student households living in private rented housing are

also excluded from the households in current need, given that their needs are assumed to be transient

and do not count towards the need for affordable housing in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne.

The need for student housing is dealt with as part of a separate assessment rather than as part of the

SHMA, so overcrowding in student households is not considered here.

4.77 The analysis does not count people occupying insanitary housing or otherwise living in unsatisfactory

housing conditions as a need for additional affordable housing. These dwellings would be unsuitable

for any household, and enabling one household to move out would simply allow another to move in –

so this would not reduce the overall number of households in housing need. This housing need should

be resolved by improving the existing housing stock, and the Council has a range of statutory

enforcement powers to improve housing conditions through the Decent Homes Standard in the

Housing Act 2004.

4.78 When considering concealed families, it is important to recognise that some will not want separate

housing. For example, concealed families with older family representatives may be living with another

family, perhaps for cultural reasons or in order to receive help or support due to poor health.

However, those with younger family representatives are more likely to be experiencing affordability

difficulties or other constraints (although not all will want to live independently).

4.79 Concealed families in a reasonable preference category on the housing register will be counted

regardless of age, but our analysis also considers the additional growth of concealed families with

family representatives aged under 55 (even those not registered on the housing register) and

assumes that all such households are unlikely to be able to afford housing (otherwise they would have

found a more suitable home).

4.80 The long term increase in concealed households aged under 55 is used in place of the total number of

concealed households aged under 55 as this increase in need is a likely consequence of housing

affordability problems. PPG identifies that this among other indicators “demonstrate un-met need for

housing” and that “longer term increase in the number of such households may be a signal to consider

increasing planned housing numbers” (ID 2a-019).

4.81 Therefore the needs of these households are counted when establishing the OAN for affordable

housing and they also add to the OAN for overall housing, as concealed families are not counted by

the CLG household projections.

4.82 Figure 64 sets out the assessment of current affordable housing need for Gateshead

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Figure 64: Assessing current unmet gross need for affordable housing for Gateshead (Source: ORS Housing Model; Note: totals

may not sum due to rounding)

GATESHEAD Affordable Housing Increase in

Overall Housing Need Gross Need Supply

Homeless households in priority need (see Figure 50)

Currently in temporary accommodation in communal establishments (Bed and breakfast or Hostels)

2 2

Currently in temporary accommodation in market housing (Private sector leased or Private landlord)

2

Currently in temporary accommodation in affordable housing (Local Authority or RSL stock)

18 18

Households accepted as homeless but without temporary accommodation provided

33 33

Concealed households (see Figure 51)

Growth in concealed families with family representatives aged under 55 223 223

Overcrowding based on the bedroom standard (see Figure 56)

Households living in overcrowded private rented housing 260

Households living in overcrowded social rented housing 933 933

Other households living in unsuitable housing that cannot afford their own home (see Figure 60)

People who need to move on medical or welfare grounds, including grounds relating to a disability

128 9

People who need to move to a particular locality in the district of the authority, where failure to meet that need would cause hardship (to themselves or to others)

0 0

TOTAL 1,599 960 258

4.83 Based on a detailed analysis of the past trends and current estimates of households considered to be

in housing need, our analysis has concluded that 1,599 households are in affordable housing need in

Gateshead and unable to afford their own housing. This assessment is based on the criteria set out in

the PPG and avoids double-counting (as far as possible).

4.84 Of these households, 960 currently occupy affordable housing that does not meet the households’

current needs, mainly due to overcrowding. Providing suitable housing for these households will

enable them to vacate their existing affordable housing, which can subsequently be allocated to

another household in need of affordable housing. There is, therefore, a net need from 639

households (1,599 less 960 = 639) who currently need affordable housing and do not currently

occupy affordable housing in Gateshead (although a higher number of new homes may be needed to

resolve all of the identified overcrowding).

4.85 This number includes 258 households that would not be counted by the household projections. There

is, therefore, a need to increase the housing need based on demographic projections to accommodate

these additional households.

4.86 Providing the net additional affordable housing needed will release back into the market (mainly in the

private rented sector) the dwellings occupied by a total of 381 households (1,599 less 960+258) that

are currently in affordable housing need who are unable to afford their own housing.

4.87 Figure 65 sets out the assessment of current affordable housing need for Newcastle upon Tyne.

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Figure 65: Assessing current unmet gross need for affordable housing for Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: ORS Housing Model;

Note: totals may not sum due to rounding)

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE Affordable Housing Increase in

Overall Housing Need Gross Need Supply

Homeless households in priority need (see Figure 50)

Currently in temporary accommodation in communal establishments (Bed and breakfast or Hostels)

9 9

Currently in temporary accommodation in market housing (Private sector leased or Private landlord)

0

Currently in temporary accommodation in affordable housing (Local Authority or RSL stock)

25 25

Households accepted as homeless but without temporary accommodation provided

11 11

Concealed households (see Figure 51)

Growth in concealed families with family representatives aged under 55 379 379

Overcrowding based on the bedroom standard (see Figure 56)

Households living in overcrowded private rented housing 473

Households living in overcrowded social rented housing 1,409 1,409

Other households living in unsuitable housing that cannot afford their own home (see Figure 60)

People who need to move on medical or welfare grounds, including grounds relating to a disability

335 28

People who need to move to a particular locality in the district of the authority, where failure to meet that need would cause hardship (to themselves or to others)

9 1

TOTAL 2,650 1,463 399

4.88 Based on a detailed analysis of the past trends and current estimates of households considered to be

in housing need, our analysis has concluded that 2,650 households are in affordable housing need in

Newcastle upon Tyne and unable to afford their own housing. This assessment is based on the

criteria set out in the PPG and avoids double-counting (as far as possible).

4.89 Of these households, 1,463 currently occupy affordable housing that does not meet the households’

current needs, mainly due to overcrowding. Providing suitable housing for these households will

enable them to vacate their existing affordable housing, which can subsequently be allocated to

another household in need of affordable housing. There is, therefore, a net need from 1,187

households (2,650 less 1,463 = 1,187) who currently need affordable housing and do not currently

occupy affordable housing in Newcastle upon Tyne (although a higher number of new homes may be

needed to resolve all of the identified overcrowding).

4.90 This number includes 399 households that would not be counted by the household projections. There

is, therefore, a need to increase the housing need based on demographic projections to accommodate

these additional households.

4.91 Providing the net additional affordable housing needed will release back into the market (mainly in the

private rented sector) the dwellings occupied by a total of 788 households (2,650 less 1,463+399) that

are currently in affordable housing need who are unable to afford their own housing.

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Projected Future Affordable Housing Need 4.92 In terms of establishing future projections of affordable housing need, the PPG draws attention to new

household formation (in particular the proportion of newly forming households unable to buy or rent

in the market area) as well as the number of existing households falling into need.

How should the number of newly arising households likely to be in housing need be calculated?

Projections of affordable housing need will need to take into account new household formation, the

proportion of newly forming households unable to buy or rent in the market area, and an estimation

of the number of existing households falling into need. This process should identify the minimum

household income required to access lower quartile (entry level) market housing (plan makers

should use current cost in this process, but may wish to factor in changes in house prices and

wages). It should then assess what proportion of newly-forming households will be unable to access

market housing.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-025

4.93 The ORS Housing Mix Model considers the need for market and affordable housing on a longer-term

basis that is consistent with household projections and Objectively Assessed Need. The Model

provides robust and credible evidence about the required mix of housing over the full planning period,

and recognises how key housing market trends and drivers will impact on the appropriate housing mix.

4.94 The Model uses a wide range of secondary data sources to build on existing household projections and

profile how the housing stock will need to change in order to accommodate the projected future

population. A range of assumptions can be varied to enable effective sensitivity testing to be

undertaken. In particular, the Model has been designed to help understand the key issues and provide

insight into how different assumptions will impact on the required mix of housing over future planning

periods.

4.95 The Housing Mix Model considers the future number and type of households based on the household

projections alongside the existing dwelling stock. Whilst the Model considers the current unmet need

for affordable housing (including the needs of homeless households, those in temporary

accommodation, overcrowded households, concealed households, and established households in

unsuitable dwellings or that cannot afford their own homes), it also provides a robust framework for

projecting the future need for affordable housing.

Households Unable to Afford their Housing Costs

4.96 PPG identifies that “projections of affordable housing need will need to take into account new

household formation, the proportion of newly forming households unable to buy or rent in the market

area, and an estimation of the number of existing households falling into need” (ID 2a-025); however,

the Model recognises that the proportion of households unable to buy or rent in the market area

will not be the same for all types of household, and that this will also differ between age cohorts.

Therefore, the appropriate proportion is determined separately for each household type and age

group.

4.97 The affordability percentages in Figure 66 are calculated using the most recent data published in2016

by DWP about housing benefit claimants alongside detailed information from the 2011 Census. There

are several assumptions underpinning the Model:

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» Where households are claiming housing benefit, it is assumed that they cannot afford

market housing; and the Model also assumes that households occupying affordable

housing will continue to do so;

» Households occupying owner occupied housing and those renting privately who aren’t

eligible for housing benefit are assumed to be able to afford market housing; so the

Model only allocates affordable housing to those established households that the

Government deems eligible for housing support through the welfare system; and

» The Model separately considers the needs of concealed families and overcrowded

households (both in market housing and affordable housing) which can contribute

additional affordable housing need.

Figure 66: Assessing affordability by household type and age (Source: ORS Housing Model based on Census 2011 and DWP)

Under

25 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

Gateshead

Percentage unable to afford market housing

Single person household 41% 26% 42% 52% 52% 47%

Couple family with no dependent children 19% 8% 15% 17% 16% 23%

Couple family with 1 or more dependent children 61% 36% 19% 15% 24% 30%

Lone parent family with 1 or more dependent children 79% 77% 63% 58% 72% 72%

Other household type 43% 41% 39% 37% 34% 25%

Newcastle upon Tyne

Percentage unable to afford market housing

Single person household 38% 29% 52% 57% 54% 45%

Couple family with no dependent children 14% 9% 18% 19% 17% 23%

Couple family with 1 or more dependent children 61% 43% 24% 17% 20% 26%

Lone parent family with 1 or more dependent children 89% 95% 72% 55% 64% 71%

Other household type 7% 16% 39% 41% 38% 25%

Components of Projected Household Growth

4.98 PPG identifies that the CLG household projections “should provide the starting point estimate for

overall housing need” (ID 2a-015) and that “the 2012-2037 Household Projections … are the most up-

to-date estimate of future household growth” (ID 2a-016). However, when considering the number of

newly arising households likely to be in affordable housing need, the PPG recommends a “gross

annual estimate” (ID 2a-025) suggesting that “the total need for affordable housing should be

converted into annual flows” (ID 2a-029).

4.99 The demographic projections developed to inform the overall Objectively Assessed Need include

annual figures for household growth, and these can therefore be considered on a year-by-year basis as

suggested by the Guidance; but given that elements of the modelling are fundamentally based on 5-

year age cohorts, it is appropriate to annualise the data using 5-year periods.

4.100 Figure 67 shows the individual components of annual household growth for Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne combined. Final outputs are provided separately later in this chapter.

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Figure 67: Components of average annual household growth by 5-year projection period in Gateshead and Newcastle upon

Tyne combined (Source: ORS Housing Model)

Annual average based on 5-year period Annual average

2015-30 2015-20 2020-25 2025-30

New household formation 6,366 6,386 6,605 6,452

Household dissolution following death 3,385 3,358 3,428 3,390

Net household growth within Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

+2,981 +3,028 +3,177 +3,062

Household migration in 10,295 10,577 10,739 10,537

Household migration out 11,724 12,042 12,333 12,033

Net household migration -1,431 -1,465 -1,592 -1,496

Total household growth +1,550 +1,563 +1,585 +1,566

4.101 Over the initial 5-year period (2015-20) the model shows that:

» There are projected to be 6,366 new household formations each year; but this is offset

against 3,385 household dissolutions following death – so there is an average net

household growth of 2,981 households locally in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

» There are also projected to be 10,295 households migrating to Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne offset against 11,724 households migrating away from the area – which yields

an reduction of 1,431 households attributable to net migration;

» The total household growth is therefore projected to be 1,550 (2,981 less 1,431)

households each year over the initial 5-year period of the projection.

4.102 During the course of the full 15-year projection period, annual net household growth is projected to

increase (from a gain of 1,550 households in 2015-20 to a gain of 1,585 households in 2025-30). This

coincides with a larger number of household dissolutions in later years (consistent with a larger

number of deaths), but new household formation is projected to marginally increase over the full

period.

4.103 Over the 15-year Plan period 2015-30, total household growth averages 1,566 households each year.

Change in Household Numbers by Age Cohort

4.104 To establish the proportion of newly forming households unable to buy or rent in the market area, it

is necessary to consider the characteristics of the 6,366 new households projected to form in

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne each year over the period 2015-20 (Figure 67) alongside the

detailed information about household affordability (Figure 66).

4.105 Figure 68 shows the age structure of each of the components of household change. Note that this

analysis is based on changes within each age cohort, so comparisons are based on households born in

the same year and relate to their age at the end of the period. Therefore all new households are

properly counted, rather than only counting the increase in the number of households in each age

group.

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Figure 68: Annual change in household numbers in each age cohort by age of HRP in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

combined (Source: ORS Housing Model)

4.106 Together with information on household type, this provides a framework for the Model to establish

the proportion of households who are unable to afford their housing costs.

4.107 The Model identifies that 31% of all newly forming households are unable to afford their housing

costs, which represents 1,974 households each year (Figure 69). The Model shows that a similar

proportion of households migrating to the area are unable to afford (32%), which represents 3,312

households moving in to the area. Some of these households will be moving to social rented housing,

but many others will be renting housing in the private rented sector with housing benefit support.

Together, there are 5,286 new households each year who are unable to afford their housing costs.

Figure 69: Affordability of new households over the initial 5-year period 2015-20 in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

combined (Source: ORS Housing Model)

All households

(annual average)

Households able to afford housing costs

Households unable to afford

housing costs

% unable to afford

housing costs

Newly forming households 6,366 4,392 1,974 31%

Households migrating in to the area 10,295 6,981 3,312 32%

All new households 16,659 11,373 5,286 32%

4.108 Having established the need for affordable housing and the dwellings likely to be vacated, the PPG

suggests that the total net need can be calculated by subtracting “total available stock from total gross

need” (ID 2a-029), but this over-simplifies what is a very complex system and typically results in an

overstatement of affordable housing needs.

4.109 It is essential to recognise that some households who are unable to buy or rent in the market area

when they first form may become able to afford their housing costs at a later date – for example:

» Two newly formed single person households may both be unable to afford housing, but

together they might create a couple household that can afford suitable housing;

» Similarly, not all households that are unable to afford housing are allocated affordable

housing, but remain part of the need until their circumstance improve;

-6,000

-4,000

-2,000

0

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

Under 25 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75-84 85+

An

nu

al c

han

ge (

ho

use

ho

lds)

Age of HRP

New household formation Household dissolution following deathHousehold migration in Household migration out

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» Some will choose to move to another housing market area and will therefore no longer

require affordable housing.

4.110 In these cases, and others, the gross need will need adjusting.

4.111 The Model recognises these complexities, and through considering the need for affordable housing as

part of a whole market analysis, it maintains consistency with the household projections and avoids

any double counting.

4.112 Considering those components of household change which reduce the number of households resident

in the area, the Model identifies 3,385 households are likely to dissolve following the death of all

household members. Many of these households will own their homes outright; however 37% are

unable to afford market housing: most living in social rented housing.

4.113 When considering households moving away from Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne, the Model

identifies that an average of 11,724 households will leave the area each year including 3,756 who are

unable to afford their housing costs. Some will be leaving social rented housing, which will become

available for another household needing affordable housing. Whilst others will not vacate a social

rented property, those unable to afford their housing costs will have been counted in the estimate of

current need for affordable housing or at the time they were a new household (either newly forming

or migrating in to the area). Whilst some of these households might prefer to stay in the area if

housing costs were less expensive or if more affordable housing was available, given that these

households are likely to move from the HMA it is appropriate that their needs are discounted to

ensure consistency with the household projections used to establish overall housing need.

4.114 Figure 70 summarises the total household growth. This includes the 5,286 new households on average

each year who are unable to afford their housing costs, but offsets this against the 5,012 households

who will either vacate existing affordable housing or who will no longer constitute a need for

affordable housing in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne (as they have moved to live elsewhere).

Figure 70: Components of average annual household growth 2015-20 in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne combined

(Source: ORS Housing Model)

All households

(annual average)

Households able to afford housing costs

Households unable to afford

housing costs

% unable to afford

housing costs

Newly forming households 6,366 4,392 1,974 31%

Households migrating in to the area 10,295 6,981 3,312 32%

All new households 16,659 11,373 5,286 32%

Household dissolutions following death 3,385 2,129 1,256 37%

Households migrating out of the area 11,724 7,969 3,756 32%

All households no longer present 15,109 10,098 5,012 33%

Average annual household growth 2015-20

1,550 1,276 274 18%

4.115 Overall, the Model projects that household growth will yield a net increase of 274 households on

average each year (over the period 2015-20) who are unable to afford their housing, which represents

18% of the 1,550 overall annual household growth for this period.

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Projecting Future Needs of Existing Households

4.116 PPG also identifies that in addition to the needs of new households, it is also important to estimate

“the number of existing households falling into need” (ID 2a-025). Whilst established households that

continue to live in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne will not contribute to household growth,

changes in household circumstances (such as separating from a partner or the birth of a child) can lead

to households who were previously able to afford housing falling into need. The needs of these

households are counted by the Model, and it is estimated that an average of 1,218 established

households fall into need each year in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne.

4.117 Finally, whilst the PPG recognises that established households’ circumstances can deteriorate such

that they fall into need, it is also important to recognise that established households’ circumstances

can improve. For example:

» When two people living as single person households join together to form a couple,

pooling their resources may enable them to jointly afford their housing costs (even if

neither could afford separately). Figure 66 showed that for those aged 25 to 34 in

Gateshead, the proportions were 26% and 8% respectively.

» Households also tend to be more likely to afford housing as they get older, so young

households forming in the early years of the projection may be able to afford later in the

projection period. Figure 66 showed that 36% of couple families with dependent children

aged 25 to 34 could not afford housing in Gateshead, compared to 19% of such

households aged 35 to 44.

4.118 Given this context, it is clear that we must also recognise these improved circumstances which can

reduce the need for affordable housing over time, as households that were previously counted no

longer need financial support. The Model identifies that the circumstances of 1,030 households

improve each year such that they become able to afford their housing costs despite previously being

unable to afford.

4.119 Therefore, considering the overall changing needs of existing households, there is an average net

increase of 188 households (1,218 less 1,030 = 188) needing affordable housing each year.

Projecting Future Affordable Housing Need (average annual estimate)

4.120 Figure 71 provides a comprehensive summary of all of the components of household change that

contribute to the projected level of affordable housing need. More detail on each is provided earlier in

this Chapter.

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Figure 71: Components of average annual household growth 2015-20 in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne combined

(Source: ORS Housing Model)

All households

(annual average)

Households able to afford housing costs

Households unable to afford

housing costs

% unable to afford

housing costs

Newly forming households 6,366 4,392 1,974 31%

Households migrating in to the area 10,295 6,981 3,312 32%

All new households 16,659 11,373 5,286 32%

Household dissolutions following death 3,385 2,129 1,256 37%

Households migrating out of the area 11,724 7,969 3,756 32%

All households no longer present 15,109 10,098 5,012 33%

Average annual household growth 2015-20

1,550 1,276 274 18%

Existing households falling into need - -1,218 1,218 100%

Existing households climbing out of need - 1,030 -1,030 0%

Change in existing households - -188 188 -

Average annual future need for market and affordable housing 2015-20

1,550 1,088 462 30%

4.121 Overall, there is a projected need from 5,286 new households who are unable to afford their housing

costs (1,947 newly forming households and 3,312 households migrating to the area); however, 5,012

households will either vacate existing affordable housing or will no longer need affordable housing in

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne (as they have moved to live elsewhere) thereby reducing the

new need to a net total of 274 households. While the Core Strategy and Urban Core Plan for

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne 2010-2030 policy CS1135 is intended to attract in migration by

working families, this cannot be taken into account as it is an aspirational, “policy-on” factor, rather

than the “policy-off” assessment of the OAN.

4.122 Considering the needs of existing households, there are 1,218 households expected to fall into need

each year, but this is offset against 1,030 households whose circumstances are projected to improve.

There is, therefore, an average net increase of 188 existing households that need affordable housing

each year.

4.123 Based on the needs of new households and existing households, there is a projected increase of 462

households each year on average for the initial period 2015-20 who will need affordable housing (274

plus 188).

Assessing the Overall Need for Affordable Housing 4.124 Using the approach outlined above for the initial 5-year period of the projection, the Model considers

the need for affordable housing over the full 15-year projection period 2015-30. Figure 72 brings

together the information on assessing the unmet need for affordable housing in 2015 and the future

affordable housing need arising over the 15-year period 2015-30 for each of Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne.

35

Policy CS11 requires “60% of new private housing across the plan area being suitable for and attractive to families, with a minimum target of 16,000 new homes to have three or more bedrooms”.

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Figure 72: Assessing total need for market and affordable housing for Gateshead (Source: ORS Housing Model)

Housing Need (households) Overall

Housing Need Market housing

Affordable housing

Unmet need for affordable housing in 2015 (see Figure 64)

Total unmet need for affordable housing - 1,599 1,599

Supply of housing vacated 381 960 1,341

Overall impact of current affordable housing need -381 639 258

Projected future housing need 2015-30

Newly forming households 17,600 11,831 29,431

Household dissolutions following death 14,960 8,665 23,625

Net household growth within Gateshead 2,640 3,166 5,806

Impact of existing households falling into need -6,631 6,631 -

Impact of existing households climbing out of need 8,067 -8,067 -

Impact of households migrating to/from the area 680 866 1,546

Future need for market and affordable housing 2015-30 4,756 2,596 7,352

Total need for market and affordable housing

Overall impact of current affordable housing need -381 639 258

Future need for market and affordable housing 2015-30 4,756 2,596 7,352

Total need for market and affordable housing 4,375 3,235 7,610

Average annual need for housing 292 216 507

Proportion of overall need for market and affordable housing 57.49% 42.51% 100.00%

Figure 73: Assessing total need for market and affordable housing for Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: ORS Housing Model)

Housing Need (households) Overall

Housing Need Market housing

Affordable housing

Unmet need for affordable housing in 2015 (see Figure 64)

Total unmet need for affordable housing - 2,650 2,650

Supply of housing vacated 788 1,463 2,251

Overall impact of current affordable housing need -788 1,187 399

Projected future housing need 2015-30

Newly forming households 50,201 17,154 67,355

Household dissolutions following death 17,104 10,126 27,230

Net household growth within Newcastle upon Tyne 33,096 7,028 40,124

Impact of existing households falling into need -13,424 13,424 -

Impact of existing households climbing out of need 8,115 -8,115 -

Impact of households migrating to/from the area -16,398 -7,588 -23,986

Future need for market and affordable housing 2015-30 11,389 4,749 16,138

Total need for market and affordable housing

Overall impact of current affordable housing need -788 1,187 399

Future need for market and affordable housing 2015-30 11,389 4,749 16,138

Total need for market and affordable housing 10,601 5,936 16,537

Average annual need for housing 707 396 1,102

Proportion of overall need for market and affordable housing 64.10% 35.90% 100.00%

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4.125 Figure 64 estimated there to be 1,599 households in need of affordable housing in 2015 in Gateshead

there to be 2,650 households in need of affordable housing in Newcastle upon Tyne. However, as

960 of these already occupied an affordable home in Gateshead and 1,463 in Newcastle upon Tyne,

our previous conclusion was therefore a net need from 639 households in Gateshead (1,599 less 960=

639) and 1,187 households in Newcastle upon Tyne (2,650 less 1,463 = 1,187) who need affordable

housing and do not currently occupy affordable housing.

4.126 The 15-year projection period 2015-30 then adopts the approach that was previously outlined for the

initial 5-year period of the projection. The Model identifies that the number of households in need of

affordable housing will increase by 2,596 households in Gateshead and 4,749 households in

Newcastle upon Tyne over the period 2015-30, alongside an increase of 4,756 households in

Gateshead and 11,389 in Newcastle upon Tyne able to afford market housing.

4.127 Overall, there will be a need to provide additional affordable housing for 3,235 households (3,277

dwellings) over the period 2015-30 in Gateshead (42.5% of the projected household growth) and

5,936 (6,014 dwellings) households in Newcastle upon Tyne (35.9% of the projected household

growth). This is equivalent to an average of 216 households per year in Gateshead and 396

households per year in Newcastle upon Tyne.

4.128 Any losses from the current affordable stock (such as demolition or clearance, or sales through Right

to Buy) would increase the number of affordable dwellings needed by an equivalent amount. The

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne JCS includes provision for a small number of demolitions and

government policy sees an increasing role for Right to Buy sales, so losses can be expected from these

sources. Meanwhile any vacant affordable dwellings returned to use would count as part of the supply

necessary to meet the need for affordable housing.

Previous Assessments of Affordable Housing Need

4.129 The previous SHMA in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne in 2013 came to different conclusions

regarding the affordable housing need figure. In summary there is no simple one point explanation of

why the Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne SHMA 2013 found a different figure for affordable

housing, but we would note that guidance was revised in 2014 so the current study is using a different

definition of affordable housing need and a different model to assess those in need of affordable

housing.

Future Policy on Housing Benefit in the Private Rented Sector

4.130 The Model recognises the importance of housing benefit and the role of the private rented sector.

The Model assumes that the level of housing benefit support provided to households living in the

private rented sector will remain constant; however, this is a national policy decision which is not in

the control of the Council.

4.131 It is important to note that private rented housing (with or without housing benefit) does not meet the

definitions of affordable housing. However, many tenants that rent from a private landlord can only

afford their housing costs as they receive housing benefit. These households aren’t counted towards

the need for affordable housing (as housing benefit enables them to afford their housing costs), but if

housing benefit support was no longer provided (or if there wasn’t sufficient private rented housing

available at a price they could afford) then this would increase the need for affordable housing.

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4.132 The model adopts a neutral position in relation to this housing benefit support, insofar as it assumes

that the number of claimants in receipt of housing benefit in the private rented sector will remain

constant. The model does not count any dwellings in the private rented sector as affordable housing

supply; however it does assume that housing benefit will continue to help some households to afford

their housing costs, and as a consequence these households will not need affordable housing.

4.133 To sensitivity test this position, Figure 74 shows the impact of reducing (or increasing) the number of

households receiving housing benefit to enable them to live in the private rented sector.

4.134 If no households were to receive housing benefit support in the private rented sector households in

around 11,100 dwellings would need affordable housing compared to the ‘no change’ scenario. In this

scenario, it is also important to recognise that the private rented housing currently occupied by

households in receipt of housing benefit would be released back to the market, which is likely to have

significant consequences on the housing market that are difficult to predict.

Figure 74: Theoretical impact of reducing or increasing Housing Benefit support for households living in private rented housing:

Balance between households able to afford market housing and households needing affordable housing 2016-34 and

associated number of affordable dwellings

Conclusions 4.135 Based on the household projections previously established, we have established the balance between

the need for market housing and the need for affordable housing. This analysis has identified a need

to increase the overall housing need by 258 households in Gateshead and 399 households in

Newcastle upon Tyne to take account of concealed families and homeless households that would not

be captured by the household projections. These additional households increase the projected

household growth from 7,352 to 7,610 households in Gateshead (523 dwellings per annum) and

from 16,138 households to 16,537 households in Newcastle upon Tyne (1,128 dwellings per annum)

over the 15-year Plan period 2015-30; equivalent to an average of 507 households (523 dwellings)

per year in Gateshead and 1,102 households (1,128 dwellings) per year in Newcastle upon Tyne.

4.136 The housing mix analysis identified a need to provide affordable housing for 3,235 additional

households (3,277 dwellings) in Gateshead and 5,936 households (6,014 dwellings) in Newcastle

84%

73%

62%

51%

40%

28%

17%

16%

27%

38%

49%

60%

72%

83%

3,800 dwellings

6,600 dwellings

9,400 dwellings

12,200 dwellings

15,000 dwellings

17,800 dwellings

20,500 dwellings

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

50% increase

25% increase

No change

25% reduction

50% reduction

75% reduction

100% reduction

Households able to afford market housing Households needing affordable housing

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upon Tyne over the 15-year period 2015-30 (an average of 216 households per year in Gateshead and

396 households per year in Newcastle upon Tyne). This would provide for the current unmet needs

for affordable housing in addition to the projected future growth in affordable housing need, but

assumes that the level of housing benefit support provided to households living in the private rented

sector remains constant.

4.137 Providing sufficient affordable housing for all households that would otherwise be living in the private

rented sector with housing benefit support would increase the need to around 11,100 affordable

homes over the period 2015-30; but it is important to recognise that, in this scenario, the private

rented housing currently occupied by households in receipt of housing benefit would be released back

to the market and this is likely to have significant consequences which would be difficult to predict.

4.138 Any losses from the current affordable stock (such as demolition or clearance, or sales through Right

to Buy) would increase the number of affordable dwellings needed by an equivalent amount.

Meanwhile any vacant affordable dwellings returned to use would count as part of the supply

necessary to meet the need for affordable housing. Both of these scenarios are important in

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne with both areas having seen recent and projected future

demolitions to facilitate renewals, but also both areas having a number of hard to let properties which

are currently vacant. If these hard to let properties could be brought back in to use, then they can be

counted as the equivalent of new housing delivery in the area.

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5. Objectively Assessed Need Analysing the evidence to establish overall housing need

5.1 The primary objective of this study is to establish the Objectively Assessed Need (OAN) for housing.

The OAN identifies the future quantity of housing that is likely to be needed (both market and

affordable) in the Housing Market Area over future plan periods. It is important to recognise that the

OAN does not take account of any possible constraints to future housing supply. Such factors will be

subsequently considered before establishing the final Housing Requirement.

The assessment of development needs is an objective assessment of need based on facts and

unbiased evidence. Plan makers should not apply constraints to the overall assessment of need,

such as limitations imposed by the supply of land for new development, historic under performance,

viability, infrastructure or environmental constraints. However, these considerations will need to be

addressed when bringing evidence bases together to identify specific policies within development

plans.

Planning Practice Guidance (PPG), paragraph 4

5.2 Figure 75 sets out the process for establishing OAN. It starts with a demographic process to derive

housing need from a consideration of population and household projections, as set out in chapter 3 of

the SHMA. To this, external market and macro-economic constraints are applied (‘market signals’), in

order to embed the need in the real world.

Figure 75: Process for establishing a Housing Number for the HMA (Source: ORS based on NPPF and PPG)

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National Context for England 5.3 The NPPF requires Local Planning Authorities to “ensure that their Local Plan meets the full, objectively

assessed needs for market and affordable housing in the housing market area” and “identify the scale

and mix of housing and the range of tenures that the local population is likely to need over the plan

period which meets household and population projections, taking account of migration and

demographic change” (paragraphs 47 and 159).

5.4 PPG further identifies that “household projections published by the Department for Communities and

Local Government should provide the starting point estimate of overall housing need” (ID 2a-015 to

016).

Household Growth 5.5 The 2014-based CLG household projections show that the number of households in England will

increase from 22.7 million to 28.0 million over the 25-year period 2014 to 2039. This represents a

growth of 5.3 million households over 25 years, equivalent to an annual average of 210,300

households each year, and this provides the starting point estimate of overall housing need for

England. This Include 1,430 households per annum across Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne,

5.6 It should be noted that the annual average of 210,300 households is already much higher than current

housing delivery: provisional data for England published by CLG for the period April 2015 to March

2016 identifies that construction started on 139,700 dwellings and 139,700 dwellings were also

completed during the year. Therefore, to build sufficient homes to meet annual household growth

would require housebuilding to increase by over 50% – so providing for household growth in itself

would require a significant step-change in the number of homes currently being built.

International Migration 5.7 The 2014-based CLG household projections are based on the ONS 2014-based sub-national population

projections. Any internal migration with England cancels itself out as an in migrant to one local

authority is an out migrant to another local authority. However, the projections identify an average

net gain of 182,400 persons each year due to international migration, and a net loss of 6,200 persons

each year from England to other parts of the UK. Therefore, the 2014-based projections are based on

net migration averaging 176,100 persons each year.

5.8 However, these estimates for future international migration may be too low. Oxford University

research (March 2015) showed net international migration to be 565,000 persons over the 3-year

period 2011-14, an average of 188,300 per annum; and net migration to England averaged 211,200

persons annually between the Census in 2001 and 2011. Both figures suggest that the 2014-based

SNPP may underestimate international migration, which would have knock-on implications for

projected population growth.

5.9 As previously noted, longer-term projections typically benefit from longer-term trends and therefore

ORS normally consider migration based on trends for the 10-year period 2001-11. On this basis, our

trends are based on a period when net migration to England averaged 211,200 persons each year:

35,100 persons higher than assumed by the 2014-based SNPP, which represents an additional 15,400

households each year based on CLG average household sizes. Therefore, the approach taken for

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establishing migration based on longer-term trends would increase household growth for England

from 210,300 households to 225,700 households each year on average.

Market Signals 5.10 The NPPF also sets out that “Plans should take account of market signals, such as land prices and

housing affordability” (ID 2a-017) and PPG identifies that “the housing need number suggested by

household projections (the starting point) should be adjusted to reflect appropriate market signals”.

5.11 The market signals identified include land prices, house prices, rents, affordability and the rate of

development; but there is no formula that can be used to consolidate the implications of this data.

Nevertheless, the likely consequence of housing affordability problems is an increase in overcrowding,

concealed and sharing households, homelessness and the numbers in temporary accommodation.

PPG identifies that these indicators “demonstrate un-met need for housing” and that “longer term

increase in the number of such households may be a signal to consider increasing planned housing

numbers” (ID 2a-019).

5.12 The Census identified that the number of concealed families living in England increased from 161,000

families to 276,000 families over the decade 2001 to 2011, which represents a growth of 115,000

families over 10 years. Although many concealed families do not want separate housing (in particular

where they have chosen to live together as extended families), others are forced to live together due

to affordability difficulties or other constraints – and these concealed families will not be counted as

part of the CLG household projections.

5.13 Concealed families with older family representatives will often be living with another family in order to

receive help or support due to poor health. Concealed families with younger family representatives

are more likely to demonstrate un-met need for housing. When we consider the growth of 115,000

families over the period 2001-11, over three quarters (87,100) have family representatives aged under

55, with substantial growth amongst those aged 25-34 in particular. This is a clear signal of the need

to increase the planned housing numbers in order to address the increase in concealed families over

the last decade and also factor in their impact on current and future average household sizes.

5.14 Addressing the increase in concealed families would increase projected household growth by 87,100

over the 25-year period, an average of 3,500 households each year over the period 2014-39 (or higher

if the need is addressed over a shorter period). Therefore, adjusting for longer-term migration trends

and taking account of the market signals uplift for concealed families yields an average household

growth for England of 229,200 each year.

Converting to Dwellings 5.15 Finally, in converting from households to dwellings we need to allow for a vacancy and second home

rate as not all dwellings will be occupied. At the time of the 2011 Census this figure was 4.3% of all

household spaces in England: we have applied this to future household growth, and on this basis the

growth of 229,200 households would require the provision of 239,500 dwellings each year across

England. This is the average number of dwellings needed every year over the 25-year period 2014-39

and represents a 1.0% increase in the dwelling stock each year.

5.16 This takes account of household growth based on CLG 2014-based projections (the starting point);

adjusts for long-term migration trends which assume a higher rate of net migration to England;

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responds to market signals through providing for the growth of concealed families; and takes account

of vacant and second homes.

5.17 Whilst the uplift for market signals represents less than 2% of the projected household growth across

England, the household growth itself is much higher than current rates of housing delivery. The

identified housing need of 239,500 dwellings requires current housebuilding rates to increase by

71% (based on dwelling starts in 2015-16).

5.18 Development industry campaigners (such as Homes for Britain36) are supporting a position which

requires 245,000 homes to be built in England every year, a figure derived from the Barker Review

(2004)37. It is evident that objectively assessed need based on household projections which take

account of longer-term migration trends together with a market signals adjustment for concealed

families is consistent with this target, so any further increase in housing numbers at a local level (such

as adjustments which might be needed to deliver more affordable housing or provide extra workers)

must be considered in this context.

Establishing Objectively Assessed Need for Gateshead & Newcastle upon Tyne 5.19 The earlier part of this Chapter sets out the context for national change in households, and the

underlying complexities and features around this. We now move on to the positions for Gateshead

and Newcastle upon Tyne. Our approach for this section follows the format of the earlier section,

albeit with specific references to Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne. Essentially, therefore, this

section is concerned with:

» CLG 2014-based household projections (the starting point);

» Migration adjustments, based on 10-year 2005-15 longer-term migration trends;

» Market signals, including an uplift for concealed families;

» Converting from household growth to a requirement for dwellings, taking account of

vacancies and second homes.

5.20 In addition, we consider employment trends and the relationship between the jobs forecast and

projected number of workers.

CLG Household Projections 5.21 The “starting point” estimate for OAN is the CLG household projections, and the latest published data

is the 2014-based projections for period 2014-39. For the 15-year period 2015-30, these projections

suggest an overall growth of 6,406 households, equivalent to an average of 427 households per year

for Gateshead and 15,047 households, equivalent to an average of 1,003 household per year for

Newcastle upon Tyne.

5.22 However, the notes accompanying the CLG Household Projections explicitly state that:

The 2014-based household projections are linked to the Office for National Statistics 2014-

based sub-national population projections. They are not an assessment of housing need or

36 http://www.homesforbritain.org.uk 37 http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/+/http:/www.hmtreasury.gov.uk/barker_review_of_housing_supply_recommendations.htm

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do not take account of future policies, they are an indication of the likely increase in

households given the continuation of recent demographic trends.

Adjustments for Local Demography and Long-term Migration 5.23 ORS have reviewed and assessed household projections as part of this study, considering the Patient

Register, other data sources and migration based on 10-year trend 2005-15. In summary, for this

SHMA we took the initial starting position of 2014 based projections, but made a number of significant

adjustments to this data:

» The starting point mid year estimate 2015 was adjusted upwards for Gateshead and

downwards for Newcastle upon Tyne based on evidence from the patient register. In

both cases the adjustment mirrors issues with the population data from between 2001

and 2011.

» Migration trends were moved from 5 years in SNPP 2014 based to use 10 year migration

trends between 2005-15 to better reflect the long-term migration for both Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne.

» A detailed analysis of the impact of students on the population and migration was

undertaken which showed that migration trends include a substantial growth in students,

but there is no expectation that this will continue in to the future. Therefore the net

impact of students has been removed from the migration data.

» Net migration from Newcastle upon Tyne to Gateshead grew from 2001 to 2011, for the

purposes of this study, and forecast trends, it has been assumed that the growth of

students in Newcastle led to an increase in out migration from Newcastle to Gateshead.

As previous student growth trends are expected to no longer continue it is also likely that

out migration to Gateshead will reduce. This assumption can be monitored over time.

5.24 On this basis, the data shows household numbers across the study area would increase over the 15-

year Plan period 2015-30 by an average of 490 per year in Gateshead and 1,076 per year in Newcastle

upon Tyne. These figures provide the most appropriate demographic projection on which to base the

Objectively Assessed Need (OAN) for housing.

Affordable Housing Need 5.25 The SHMA has undertaken a comprehensive analysis of the existing unmet need for affordable

housing. This analysis identified that the overall housing need should be increased by 258 households

in Gateshead and 399 households in Newcastle upon Tyne to take account of concealed families and

homeless households that would not be captured by the household projections. When the unmet

needs from existing households living in unsuitable housing were also included, the analysis

established there to be 1,599 households in need of affordable housing in 2015 in Gateshead there

to be 2,650 households in need of affordable housing in Newcastle upon Tyne.

5.26 However, as 960 of these already occupied an affordable home in Gateshead and 1,463 in Newcastle

upon Tyne, therefore there is a net need from 639 households in Gateshead (1,599 less 960= 639) and

1,187 households in Newcastle upon Tyne (2,650 less 1,463 = 1,187) who need affordable housing and

do not currently occupy affordable housing in 2015.

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5.27 Based on the household projections, the SHMA has established the balance between the future need

for market housing and affordable housing. The analysis identifies that the number of households in

need of affordable housing will increase by 2,596 households in Gateshead and 4,749 households in

Newcastle upon Tyne over the period 2015-30, alongside an increase of 4,756 households in

Gateshead and 11,389 in Newcastle upon Tyne able to afford market housing.

5.28 Overall, there will be a need to provide additional affordable housing for 3,235 households (2,596 new

households + 639 households in current need) over the period 2015-30 in Gateshead (42.5% of the

projected household growth) and 5,936 households (4,749 new households + 1,187 households in

current need) in Newcastle upon Tyne (35.9% of the projected household growth). This is equivalent

to an average of 216 households per year in Gateshead and 396 households per year in Newcastle

upon Tyne.

5.29 These figures are significantly higher than those set out in the Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

SHMA 2013, but that featured a different definition of affordable housing need and also used a

different model to assess households who require affordable housing.

5.30 Any losses from the current affordable stock (such as demolition or clearance, or sales through Right

to Buy) would increase the number of affordable dwellings needed by an equivalent amount.

Meanwhile any vacant affordable dwellings returned to use would count as part of the supply

necessary to meet the need for affordable housing. Both of these scenarios are important in

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne with both areas having seen recent demolitions to facilitate

renewals, but also both areas having a number of hard to let properties which are currently vacant. If

these hard to let properties could be brought back in to use, then they can be counted as the

equivalent of new housing delivery in the area.

Need for Older Person Housing 5.31 The SHMA has identified that the institutional population is likely to increase by 414 persons aged 75

years or over in Gateshead and 593 persons in Newcastle upon Tyne. over the period 2015-30. This

increase in institutional population is a consequence of the CLG approach to establishing the

household population38, which assumes “that the share of the institutional population stays at 2011

levels by age, sex and relationship status for the over 75s” on the basis that “ageing population will

lead to greater level of population aged over 75 in residential care homes”.

5.32 However, it does not necessarily follow that all of the increase in institutional population should be

provided as additional bedspaces in residential institutions in Use Class C2; some of the specialist older

person housing may be more appropriate for their needs. Housing and planning policy in both

authorities seeks to keep households in their own homes for longer and therefore, it is likely that

additional nursing and care homes will not be provided. If that is the case then the needs of the

additional older persons will need to be factored in to the housing requirements for the area.

Employment Trends 5.33 While demographic trends are key to the assessment of OAN, it is also important to consider current

Employment Trends and how the projected growth of the economically active population fits with the

future changes in job numbers.

38 Household Projections 2012-based: Methodological Report, Department for Communities and Local Government, February 2015

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“Plan makers should make an assessment of the likely change in job numbers based on past trends

and/or economic forecasts as appropriate and also having regard to the growth of the working age

population in the housing market area.

Where the supply of working age population that is economically active (labour force supply) is less

than the projected job growth, this could result in unsustainable commuting patterns (depending on

public transport accessibility or other sustainable options such as walking or cycling) and could

reduce the resilience of local businesses. In such circumstances, plan makers will need to consider

how the location of new housing or infrastructure development could help address these problems.”

Planning Practice Guidance 2014, paragraph 18

5.34 As noted in Figure 43, the economically active population of Gateshead is likely to increase by 4,381

persons over the 15-year period 2015-30. Meanwhile the economically active population of Newcastle

upon Tyne is likely to increase by 14,592 over the same time period. Therefore, between the two

authorities the economically active population is projected to grow by around 19,000 persons. This

equates to around 1,267 persons per annum.

5.35 The current Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint Core Strategy sets a jobs growth target for the

two authorities of 22,000 additional jobs over the 20 year period 2010-30, or an average of 1,100

additional jobs per annum (based on a projection by Cambridge Econometrics). Figure 76 shows the

reported level of jobs in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne combined for the period 2005-16. The

data is taken form the Annual Population Survey (APS) and is a sample survey with a margin of error.

This is shown by the bars on the number of jobs each year.

5.36 The chart shows that estimated jobs numbers go up and down from year to year, but this is as likely to

be an effect of sample variation as it is to reflect real changes in jobs. Therefore, it is best to look at

changes over a period of time using several points of data. On this basis the best estimate for the area

is that the number of jobs has probably grown by between 10,000 and 15,000 over the 11 year period,

or 900-1,350 per annum. Therefore, jobs growth recorded through the APS has been broadly

consistent with the Joint Core Strategy and also the projected growth in future economically active

persons in this study.

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Figure 76: Number of jobs for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne for 2005-2016 (Source: APS Workplace Jobs)

5.37 We would note that the estimates for economically active persons in this study do not consider a

range of important factors in balancing jobs and workers. These include:

» Falls in recorded unemployment;

» Falls in hidden unemployment as workers not registered as unemployed return to work;

» The impact of double jobbing – some workers hold more than one job; and

» The impact of commuting – if job growth exceeds the number of workers in Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne then as an area which has traditional seen net in-commuting then this

could be expected to fill some jobs.

5.38 We would note at this point that the balance between jobs and workers is the only point where the

HMA becomes important in considering OAN. The draft North Tyneside Local Plan sets out a jobs

target which will be accommodated through growth in the local workforce in North Tyneside, but that

no additional out-commuting will occur. This means that Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead cannot

assume that any of their jobs growth will be met through out-commuting from North Tyneside.

5.39 Overall the effects of these changes are that more than 1,250 additional workers per annum will be

available to fill jobs in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne. Therefore, unless the Councils wish to

significantly increase their jobs target there is no evidence that there will be a lack of workers to fill

any additional jobs which are created.

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Market Signals 5.40 While demographic trends are key to the assessment of OAN, it is also important to consider current

Market Signals and how these may affect housing needs. PPG identifies a range of housing market

signals that should be considered when determining the future housing number. Key to this is how

market signals should be taken into account:

The housing need number suggested by household projections (the starting point) should be

adjusted to reflect appropriate market signals, as well as other market indicators of the balance

between the demand for and supply of dwellings (ID 2a-019)

A worsening trend in any of these indicators will require upward adjustment to planned housing

numbers compared to ones based solely on household projections (ID 2a-020)

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-019/020

5.41 The Market Signals include:

» Land and house prices;

» Rents and affordability;

» Rate of development; and

» Overcrowding.

5.42 Furthermore, there are other issues that should be considered, for example the macro-economic

climate (PAS OAN technical advice note, para 5.22). There are also wider market trends and drivers to

consider. A full range of market signals are reviewed and their implications are considered especially

where these may indicate undersupply relative to demand and the need to deviate from household

projections.

5.43 PPG and the PAS OAN technical advice note emphasise the importance of considering indicators in the

context of longer-term trends and looking at rates of change as well as absolute levels – for example,

house prices in the housing market may be higher or lower than the national average, however the

more important consideration is whether or not they are becoming more (or less) expensive at a rate

that differs from the national rates or rates in similar areas.

Appropriate comparisons of indicators should be made. This includes comparison with

longer term trends (both in absolute levels and rates of change) in the housing market area;

similar demographic and economic areas; and nationally.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-020

5.44 To identify areas with similar demographic and economic characteristics to Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne, we have analysed a range of comparative data. The data identified that Leeds, Liverpool

with Knowsley, Manchester with Salford and Sheffield have demographic and economic characteristics

that are similar to Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne; therefore, in considering market signals, we

have considered these areas as appropriate comparators and compared them against Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne.

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House Prices 5.45 House prices in the UK have been relatively volatile in the past 10 years. Prices increased by 8.7% in

the 12 months to June 201639; prices rose fastest in the East of England (14.3%), London (12.6%), and

the South East (12.3%).

5.46 The average UK house price was £214,000 in June 2016 compared to the peak of the previous high of

£190,000 in the three months August to October 2007, which was overtaken in 2014. Average house

price trends 2006 - 2016 as demonstrated by the House Price Index (HPI) show the price divergence

between London and the rest of the UK.

Figure 77: Annual house price rates of change, UK all

dwellings 2004-2016 (Source: Regulated

Mortgage Survey. Note: Not seasonally adjusted)

Figure 78: UK and London House Price Index 2008-2016

(Source: ONS)

5.47 The Bank of England has overall responsibility for UK monetary policy: it has become concerned about

the risks posed by house prices, high levels of borrowing and any housing ‘bubble’ to national

economic recovery. In his speech at the Mansion House in June 2014, the Governor of the Bank said:

“The underlying dynamic of the housing market reflects a chronic shortage of housing

supply, which the Bank of England can’t tackle directly.

To be clear, the Bank does not target asset price inflation in general or house prices in

particular.

It is indebtedness that concerns us.

This is partly because over-extended borrowers could threaten the resilience of the core of

the financial system since credit to households represents the lion’s share of UK banks’

domestic lending.

It is also because rapid growth in or high levels of mortgage debt can affect the stability of

the economy as a whole.”

5.48 These concerns remain. The Financial Policy Committee (FPC) Financial Stability Report July 201640

states:

39 https://www.ons.gov.uk/economy/inflationandpriceindices/bulletins/housepriceindex/june2016

0

50

100

150

200

UK London

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“The FPC is alert to risks arising from household indebtedness. Survey evidence on the

housing market has been difficult to interpret in recent months because of the impact of the

pre-announced increase in stamp duty, which boosted activity in March and has dampened

activity in April and May. Nevertheless, in advance of the referendum, there was evidence

that uncertainty about the outcome was contributing to a slowdown in housing activity. For

example, the May RICS survey of chartered surveyors reported a sharp decline in new buyer

enquiries … to their lowest level since 2008. In the period since the referendum, the average

share price of the largest home construction firms has declined by 25%, compared with a 2%

rise in the FTSE All-Share index”

5.49 The FPC also states concern about the effects of rapid growth in the buy-to-let sector:

“The stock of buy-to-let lending grew by 12.3% in the year to 2016 Q1. Activity fell off

sharply in April, such that buy-to-let mortgage lending for house purchase was 85% lower

than in March.”

5.50 The risk centres on the possibility of buy-to-let investments “amplifying cycles in the housing market as

a whole” which “could put upward pressure on household indebtedness in an upswing and have an

impact on consumption and broader economic activity in a downturn.”

5.51 The RICS UK Residential Market Survey41 is updated monthly. While there are many uncertainties

following the June 2016 referendum, the July 2016 Survey gives an early indication of the direction of

prices in the short to medium term, and reports an increase in optimism among respondents:

“the net balance of those expecting prices to increase over the year ahead rising from zero to

+23%. Even so, this still represents a significant softening compared to six months ago, when

+66% more surveyors anticipated rising prices. For the second month running, the regional

breakdown shows London and East Anglia are the only areas in which prices are expected to

fall over the year ahead.”

5.52 Overall respondents to the Survey expect prices to rise over the medium term, with higher rises in

London compared to the UK:

“London exhibits amongst the strongest projections over the medium term (three-month average), with respondents pencilling in around 4% growth, per annum, over the next five years. On the same basis, prices are expected to rise by close to 3% nationally.”

5.53 The Survey suggests that, currently, an “acute shortage of property for sale” could be underpinning

prices.

Local House Prices

5.54 House price trends (2001-2016) are shown in Figure 79 based on lower quartile house prices. Of

course, the value of money has also changed during this period, therefore Figure 80 shows data

adjusted to take account of the impact of inflation. Therefore, the values in Figure 80 reflect real

changes which have occurred since 2001 when removing the impact of background inflation.

40 http://www.bankofengland.co.uk/publications/Pages/fsr/2016/jul.aspx

41 http://www.rics.org/uk/knowledge/market-analysis/rics-residential-market-survey/

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Figure 79: House Price Trends: Lower Quartile Prices (Source: ONS. Note: HMA figures derived using population weighted

average of Local Authority data)

Figure 80: Real House Price Trends: Lower Quartile Prices adjusted to 2015 values using CPI (Source: ONS; Bank of England.

Note: HMA figures derived using population weighted average of Local Authority data)

5.55 It is evident that real house prices across Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne increased substantially

in the period 2004-2007. Nevertheless, values reduced by the start of 2009 and have largely fallen

until around 2014 when they started to increase again.

£0

£20,000

£40,000

£60,000

£80,000

£100,000

£120,000

£140,000

£160,000

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne Leeds

Liverpool & Knowsley Manchester & Salford Sheffield

ENGLAND

£0

£20,000

£40,000

£60,000

£80,000

£100,000

£120,000

£140,000

£160,000

£180,000

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne Leeds

Liverpool & Knowsley Manchester & Salford Sheffield

ENGLAND

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5.56 Figure 81 shows how real house prices in Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne and the comparator areas

have varied when compared with the English average. This shows that real house prices in Gateshead

and Newcastle upon Tyne have stayed at a relatively consistent rate relative to the English average

over the period since 2009.

Figure 81: Real House Price Trends relative to England: Lower Quartile Prices adjusted to 2015 values using CPI (Source: ONS;

Bank of England. Note: HMA figures derived using population weighted average of Local Authority data)

Affordability 5.57 Figure 82 below shows the ratio of lower quartile house price to lower quartile earnings in Gateshead,

Newcastle upon Tyne and the comparator areas between 2001 and 2015. The ratio is calculated by

taking all house prices and, starting with the cheapest up to the most expensive, taking the properties

which are at the 25th percentile to represent the entry point for the house market. The same process

is followed with income, so the 25th percentile for earnings are taken the amount of money a first time

buyer is likely to have available to them to support a mortgage. This long term trend for Gateshead

and Newcastle upon Tyne is similar to comparator authorities; while worsening in the period 2003-07

(when there was an increase in real house prices), the multiplier has been relatively stable over the

period 2008-15.

-£80,000

-£60,000

-£40,000

-£20,000

£0

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne Leeds

Liverpool & Knowsley Manchester & Salford Sheffield

ENGLAND

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Figure 82: Ratio of Lower Quartile House Price to Lower Quartile Earnings (Source: DCLG. Note: Ratios prior to 2013 are

calculated using a different source of house price data, HMA figures derived using population weighted average of

Local Authority data)

5.58 Of course, it is important to remember that affordability can be influenced by both supply side issues

(e.g. lower housing delivery levels) and demand side issues (e.g. availability of mortgage finance).

5.59 It is generally recognised that the availability and affordability of mortgage finance in the early part of

the last decade contributed to house price growth during this period. Borrowers were readily able to

access mortgages with high Loan-to-value (LTV) rates (including rates of 100% or more) based on high

income multipliers; with the associated interest rates being relatively low compared to previous years.

Standard variable rate mortgages were typically around 8% in the late 1990s (having previously been

much higher); but rates approached 5% by 2003 (when the Bank of England base rate was at 3.5%).

0.0

1.0

2.0

3.0

4.0

5.0

6.0

7.0

8.0

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne Leeds

Liverpool & Knowsley Manchester & Salford Sheffield

ENGLAND

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Private Rent 5.60 Private Rented Housing has become a significant part of the national housing offer; further, many

households with housing need are now meeting those needs in the sector.

5.61 The English Housing Survey confirmed that more households in England rent from private landlords

than councils or housing associations (4.3m cf. 3.9m in 2014-15). Given very limited new build private

rent supply, sector growth is driven by conversion of existing owner occupied stock to private rent,

either as individual homes or as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO).

5.62 The Institute of Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA) forecasts suggest that the sector will continue to

increase in size in coming years. More than a third of all households could rent privately within two

decades – twice as many as today.

Figure 83: UK household tenure projections to 2032 (Source: DCLG/IMLA)

Private Rented Sector in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

5.63 Whilst the dominant form of housing tenure in both Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne continues to

be owner occupation, the owner occupied sector in Newcastle upon Tyne has declined relatively by 3.4

percentage points between 2001 and 2011. In the same period, the private rented sector has grown

by 7.1 percentage points in Newcastle upon Tyne and 5.8 percentage points in Gateshead. Affordable

housing is declining relative to other tenures and in gross stock numbers in both local authority areas.

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Figure 84: Household Tenure by Area (Source: UK Census of Population 2001 and 2011. Note: Private Rent includes tied housing

and living rent free)

5.64 The rate of increase in the PRS is revealing: over the period 2001-11, the PRS sector has grown by 87%

in Gateshead and 62% in Newcastle upon Tyne.

5.65 It is important to recognise that the private rented sector in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne is

growing via the conversion of other tenures rather than new build. PRS does not contribute

significantly to new housing supply; there is, however, considerable current interest in attracting

investment to boost new build PRS supply, particularly from Government42.

Private Sector Rents

5.66 Median rents have increased across most property sizes in both Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

in the private rented sector over the period since 2013/14, however, average rents are below those

nationally across England. The upward trend would indicate that the sector still has growth potential

both nationally and locally.

42 Review of the Barriers to Institutional Investment in Private Rented Homes; Montague Review

58.6

49.9

58.6

50.9

42.6

58.7

64.1

13.4

20.4

19.4

21.6

26.7

16.5

18.2

28.0

29.7

22.0

27.6

30.6

24.8

17.7

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%

Gateshead

Newcastle upon Tyne

Leeds

Liverpool & Knowsley

Manchester & Salford

Sheffield

England

Percentage of Households 2011

Owned Private Rent Social Rent

0.5

-3.4

-3.6

-4.0

-4.4

-1.4

-4.6

5.8

7.1

6.9

8.4

7.0

6.2

-6.3

-3.7

-3.3

-4.5

-5.9

-5.5

-1.6

-10% -6% -2% 2% 6% 10%

Net Change 2001-11

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Figure 85: Median Monthly Rent Values (Source: Valuation Office Agency 2013-2016, Note: HMA figures derived using

population weighted average of Local Authority data)

April 2013-

March 2014

April 2014-

March 2015

April 2015-

March 2016

Gateshead

1 bedroom £395 £420 £425

2 bedroom £475 £475 £475

3 bedrooms £560 £550 £563

4 or more bedrooms £750 £750 £763

Newcastle upon Tyne

1 bedroom £450 £450 £460

2 bedroom £525 £550 £550

3 bedrooms £600 £625 £650

4 or more bedrooms £795 £950 £900

Leeds

1 bedroom £500 £495 £495

2 bedroom £600 £598 £600

3 bedrooms £775 £750 £780

4 or more bedrooms £1,625 £1,664 £1,092

Liverpool and Knowsley

1 bedroom £432 £447 £446

2 bedroom £524 £521 £521

3 bedrooms £555 £553 £559

4 or more bedrooms £788 £821 £792

Manchester and Salford

1 bedroom £535 £572 £566

2 bedroom £618 £676 £650

3 bedrooms £684 £746 £757

4 or more bedrooms £1,055 £1,142 £1,134

Sheffield

1 bedroom £475 £475 £495

2 bedroom £510 £525 £550

3 bedrooms £550 £575 £595

4 or more bedrooms £875 £900 £895

England

1 bedroom £500 £525 £550

2 bedroom £575 £595 £600

3 bedrooms £650 £675 £695

4 or more bedrooms £1,100 £1,175 £1,250

Housing Development 5.67 Census data shows that the number of unshared dwellings in Gateshead increased by 5,010 over the

10-year period 2001-11. The equivalent growth in Newcastle upon Tyne was 4,110 over the same time

period.

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5.68 Figure 86 and Figure 87 compare the data from the Census against the data published by CLG and data

from the two councils. The CLG data suggests an annual average of 450 additional dwellings in

Gateshead over the period 2001-02 to 2015-16 and 420 additional dwelling per annum in Newcastle

upon Tyne over the period 2005-06 to 2015-16. Earlier data for Newcastle upon Tyne was not

recorded.

5.69 Based on the Councils’ own data, in the five years since 2011-12, net delivery in Gateshead has

averaged 310 additional dwellings per year and 360 per annum in Newcastle upon Tyne. However,

CLG data is lower for Gateshead, but higher for Newcastle upon Tyne.

Figure 86: Annual Housing Completions for Gateshead (Source: Gateshead BC AMR Data; CLG Live Tables; Census 2001 and

2011)

Figure 87: Annual Housing Completions for Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne AMR Data; CLG Live Tables;

Census 2001 and 2011)

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

Dw

elli

ng

com

ple

tio

ns

Gateshead Data CLG Census (annual average)

-200

-100

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

Dw

elli

ng

com

ple

tio

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Newcastle Upon Tyne Data CLG Census (annual average)

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5.70 In September 2016, The Financial Times reported that the official figures that the government uses for

policymaking undercount construction. They reported that data drawn from local authorities'

assessments for council tax purposes suggests that the official figures miss about 20 per cent of new

construction. Data that records the number of energy performance certificates issued to newly-built

homes suggests as many as a quarter of them may be missing from the official figures. Therefore,

nationally reported completions should be treated with caution.

Overcrowding 5.71 Overcrowding was considered in detail when establishing the need for affordable housing, and based

on the bedroom standard we estimated that in 2015, 1,764 households were overcrowded in

Gateshead (Figure 56), including 571 owner occupiers, 260 households renting privately and 933

households in the social rented sector; and that 2,585 households were overcrowded in Newcastle

upon Tyne, including 703 owner occupiers, 473 households renting privately and 1,409 households in

the social rented sector.

5.72 PPG also identifies a series of other factors to monitor alongside overcrowding, including concealed

and sharing households, homelessness and the numbers in temporary housing:

Indicators on overcrowding, concealed and sharing households, homelessness and the numbers in

temporary accommodation demonstrate un-met need for housing. Longer term increase in the

number of such households may be a signal to consider increasing planned housing numbers.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-019

5.73 These were also considered when establishing the need for affordable housing, and the overall

housing number was increased to take account of the needs of homeless households and concealed

families with younger family representatives who would not have been counted as part of the

household projections. This adjustment has already been incorporated as a response to the identified

un-met need for housing, and can be considered as part of the response to market signals.

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Summary of Market Signals 5.74 In terms of headline outputs, the market signals when compared to relevant comparator areas show:

Figure 88: Summary of Market Signals: Indicators Relating to Price (Note: Affordability Ratios prior to 2013 are calculated using

a different source of house price data, HMA figures derived using population weighted average of Local Authority

data)

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

Leeds Liverpool & Knowsley

Manchester & Salford

Sheffield England

INDICATORS RELATING TO PRICE

House prices

Lower quartile house price

2015-16 price

£92,000 £111,000 £115,000 £76,800 £103,600 £102,000 £142,000

Relative to England

-35% -22% -19% -46% -27% -28% -

2010-11 price

£84,000 £100,000 £104,500 £78,500 £86,600 £90,000 £125,000

5-year change

+10% +11% +10% -2% +20% +13% +14%

Affordability

Lower quartile house price to earnings

2015 ratio 5.0 5.8 5.8 4.3 5.0 5.3 7.0

Relative to England

-28% -18% -17% -39% -29% -24% -

2010 ratio 4.9 5.5 5.7 3.9 4.8 5.3 6.7

5-year change

+4% +5% +1% +9% +5% +<1% +5%

Rents

Average monthly rent

2015-16 cost £517 £606 £671 £498 £671 £579 £820

Relative to England

-37% -26% -18% -39% -18% -29% -

2010-11 cost £515 £467 £614 £498 £515 £477 £694

5-year change

+<1% +30% +9% -<1% +30% +21% +18%

INDICATORS RELATING TO QUANTITY

Rate of development

Increase in stock

2001-11 change

5.7% 3.5% 7.1% 6.8% 13.6% 5.4% 8.3%

Relative to England

-31% -58% -15% -19% +63% -35% -

Overcrowding

Overcrowded households

2011 proportion

6.2% 9.1% 9.1% 8.8% 14.1% 9.5% 8.7%

Relative to England

-30% +4% +4% +1% +61% +9% -

2001 proportion

6.1% 7.8% 7.8% 7.5% 9.3% 6.3% 7.1%

10-year change

+1% +17% +17% +18% +52% +50% +23%

5.75 As acknowledged earlier in this section, there is no single formula that can be used to consolidate the

implications of this information; and furthermore the housing market signals will have been

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predominantly influenced by relatively recent housing market trends. Nevertheless, on the basis of

this data we can conclude:

» House Prices: lower quartile prices are lower than the national average in both Gateshead

and Newcastle upon Tyne, with lower quartile prices of £92,000 and £111,000

respectively compared to England’s £142,000 (based on 2015-16 prices). The current

lower quartile price in the comparator area Liverpool and Knowsley is lower again at

£76,800; the prices in comparator areas Sheffield and Manchester and Salford are

£102,000 and £103,600 respectively; and lower quartile prices in Leeds are higher than

both Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne at £115,000. Prices in Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne have risen at a similar rate to most of the comparator areas and the

national rate over the past 5 years; however there was a higher rate of increase in

Manchester and Salford (20%) and a small reduction in lower quartile prices in Liverpool

and Knowsley (-2%);

» Rents: for average private sector rents in 2015-16, both Gateshead and Newcastle upon

Tyne are lower than the national average, they are however broadly in line with private

sector rents in comparator areas. When we look at the growth in rent over the past 5

years, Newcastle upon Tyne has a higher rate of growth than the national average (30%

compared to growth of 18% in England as a whole) whereas the rate of growth in private

sector rents in Gateshead was less than 1%;

» Affordability (in terms of the ratio between lower quartile house prices and lower

quartile earnings) is much lower in both Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne than across

England as a whole (5.0 and 5.8 respectively cf. 7.0). This means for example in

Gateshead that lower quartile house prices are 5 times higher than the salary of a full-

time workers whose earnings are at the lower quartile. Affordability ratios have got

marginally “worse” since 2010, with the ratio in Gateshead increasing from 4.9 to 5.0 and

the ratio in Newcastle upon Tyne increasing from 5.5 to 5.8. This is in line with the

equivalent rate for England, where the ratio increased from 6.7 to 7.0, a change of 5%;

» Rate of development (in terms of increase in dwelling stock over the last 10 years) shows

that rate of development in Gateshead has been lower than England (5.7% cf. 8.3%). The

rate of development in Newcastle upon Tyne was lower again at 3.5%. Rates of

development were higher in most of the comparator areas than both Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne with the rate of change in Manchester and Salford reaching 13.6%

over the last 10 years;

» Overcrowding (in terms of Census occupancy rates) shows that 6.2% of households in

Gateshead are overcrowded based on the objective measure of the Census proportion,

which is lower than England (8.7%). The proportion of overcrowded households in

Newcastle upon Tyne was slightly higher than England (9.1%). The proportion of

overcrowded households in Newcastle upon Tyne has increased over the last 10 years but

at a lower rate than England (17% cf. 23%). Overcrowding has also increased in

Gateshead but only marginally (1%). The proportion of overcrowded households and rate

of increase between 2001 and 2011 was much worse in comparator areas Manchester

and Salford and Sheffield.

5.76 Given this context, it is apparent that the indicators generally indicate that housing market pressure in

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne are generally comparable to those in similar areas, with some

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being a little better and some a little worse. Overall, (and given that many of these areas show lesser

pressures than the national average - in particular the market signals relating to price), conditions

across Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne suggest that the level of Objectively Assessed Need

should not be higher than suggested by household projections.

5.77 However, the analysis of overcrowding for the SHMA Update has already identified that the overall

housing need should be increased by 373 households in Gateshead and 586 households in Newcastle

upon Tyne to take account of concealed families and homeless households that would not be

captured by the household projections.

This specific adjustment should be incorporated as a response to market signals to take account of

the identified un-met need for housing, representing an uplift of 2.6% on the household projections,

which in turn are already 13.9% higher than the CLG starting point. Given the market signals

context, it is probably not appropriate to increase this uplift.

Housing Backlog 5.78 The Planning Advisory Service Good Plan Making Guide43 identifies that the SHMA should “re-set the

clock” and provide a new baseline assessment of all housing need. However, the SHMA must take

account of ‘backlog’: any unmet need for housing that exists at the start of the plan period.

“Having an up-to-date, robust Strategic Housing Market Assessment should re-set the clock,

and therefore carrying forward under-provision from a previous plan period would be

‘double counting’. Make sure however that the Strategic Housing Market Assessment takes

account of ‘backlog’ which is unmet need for housing that still exists at the start of the new

plan period (for example, the needs of the homeless and other households living in

unacceptable accommodation). The Strategic Housing Market Assessment should show all

those in need. It is therefore vitally important to have a properly done Strategic Housing

Market Assessment that has the right scope.” (page 49)

5.79 This SHMA has fully considered the unmet needs of homeless and other households living in

unacceptable accommodation (such as concealed families and sharing households) that existed in

2015. Furthermore, given that the SHMA also identifies all new housing need from the baseline date

of 2015, all needs arising over the 15-year period 2015-30 have been identified and there will be no

additional unmet need for housing to be counted for a new Plan with this base date.

Conclusions 5.80 We have calculated Objectively Assessed Need based on demographic projections and assessed these

against Market Signals to determine if a higher rate of housing delivery is necessary to address housing

market problems. This takes account of household growth based on CLG 2014-based projections (the

starting point); adjusts for long-term migration trends; responds to suppressed household formation

(through providing for the growth of concealed families); and takes account of vacant and second

homes.

5.81 The “starting point” estimate for OAN is the CLG household projections, and the latest published data

is the 2014-based projections for period 2014-39. Across the two authorities CLG Household

43 http://www.pas.gov.uk/documents/332612/6363137/Pages+from+FINAL+PAS+Good+Plan+Making+-6.pdf

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Projections suggest a growth of 21,453 households over the 15-year period 2015-30; however, this is

based on short-term migration trends.

5.82 However, a comprehensive review of the local demographic evidence identifies some significant

discrepancies with the official population data for the area which affect the official population

projections, including issues with previous mid-year population estimates, migration flows and also the

impact of students on future projections. Consistent with PPG, the SHMA therefore takes full account

of these “factors affecting local demography” through developing independent household and

population projections based on 10-year migration trends. These scenarios show that household

numbers across the study area would increase by an average of 498 per year in Gateshead and 1,044

per year in Newcastle upon Tyne (based on trends for the period 2005-15) over the 15-year period

2015-30. These figures are the equivalent of 515 dwellings per annum in Gateshead and 1,068

dwelling per annum in Newcastle upon Tyne.

5.83 The baseline household projections should be increased by 657 households to take account of

concealed families and homeless households that would otherwise not be captured due to suppressed

household formation rates. This adjustment responds to identified un-met need for affordable

housing, and addresses suppressed household formation rates. Any new C2 provision does not count

as a contribution towards the housing requirement as this element of the population living in this type

of provision are outside the OAN assessment.

5.84 Providing for this increase in households and allowing for transaction vacancies and second homes

yields a baseline housing need of 24,772 dwellings; with 7,848 in Gateshead and 16,924 in Newcastle

upon Tyne.

5.85 While demographic projections form the starting point for Objectively Assessed Need calculations, it is

necessary to consider whether a higher rate of housing delivery may be needed to help address

housing market problems. Further adjustments may be needed in response to balancing jobs and

workers, market signals or any backlog of housing provision.

5.86 The evidence from planned jobs and workers identifies that there will be sufficient extra workers for

the forecast increase in jobs, so there is no need to increase housing delivery to provide any additional

workers. This does not taken account of the Core Strategy Policy CS11 aim of attracting working age

families as that policy is aspirational.

5.87 No uplift is proposed and this is an appropriate response to the market signal indicators. The overall

housing need has already been increased by 674 dwellings to take account of concealed families and

homeless households not captured by the household projections.

5.88 Figure 89 summarises each of the stages for establishing the Full Objectively Assessed Need for

Housing.

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Figure 89: Full Objectively Assessed Need for Housing for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne 2015-30

Gateshead Newcastle upon

Tyne Total

Demographic starting point: CLG household

projections 2015-30 6,406 15,047 21,453

Baseline household projections taking account of local

circumstances 7,352 16,138 23,490

Allowance for transactional vacancies and second

homes: based on dwellings without a usually resident

household

230 378 608

Dwellings 7,582 16,516 24,098

Adjustment for suppressed household formation

rates: concealed family growth 2001-11 and homeless

households (Figure 64 and Figure 65)

258 + 8 = 266 399 + 9 = 408 657 + 17 = 674

Baseline housing need based on demographic

projections 7,848 16,924 24,772

Further adjustments

needed…

In response to balancing

jobs and workers: 0 0 0

In response to market signals

0 0 0

Combined impact of the identified adjustments 0 0 0

Full Objectively Assessed Need for Housing 2015-30 7,848 16,924 24,772

5.89 Of course, it is important to remember that “establishing future need for housing is not an exact

science” (PPG ID 2a-014). Whilst the OAN must be underwritten by robust evidence that is based on

detailed analysis and informed by reasonable assumptions, the final conclusions should reflect the

overall scale of the housing needed in the housing market area without seeking to be spuriously

precise.

5.90 The SHMA therefore identifies the Full Objective Assessed Need for Housing in Gateshead to be 7,848

dwellings over the 15-year period 2015-30, equivalent to an average of 523 dwellings per year. This

includes the Objectively Assessed Need of Affordable Housing for 3,277 dwellings over the same

period, equivalent to an average of 218 per year.

5.91 The SHMA also identifies the Full Objective Assessed Need for Housing in Newcastle upon Tyne to be

16,924 dwellings over the 15-year period 2015-30, equivalent to an average of 1,128 dwellings per

year. This includes the Objectively Assessed Need of Affordable Housing for 6,014 dwellings over the

same period, equivalent to an average of 401 per year.

5.92 Importantly, these OAN figures are extremely close to those set out in the Joint Core Strategy for the

period 2015-30. Therefore, it would seem to be appropriate to continue with the Joint Core Strategy

housing target figures.

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6. Housing needs of different groups

Considering the need for all types of housing

6.1 The National Planning Policy Framework states that Local Plans should meet the “full, objectively

assessed needs for market and affordable housing in the housing market area” (paragraph 47) and

identifies that local planning authorities should seek to “deliver a wide choice of high quality homes,

widen opportunities for home ownership and create sustainable, inclusive and mixed communities” and

plan for the “needs of different groups”:

To deliver a wide choice of high quality homes, widen opportunities for home ownership and create

sustainable, inclusive and mixed communities, local planning authorities should:

» plan for a mix of housing based on current and future demographic trends, market trends and

the needs of different groups in the community (such as, but not limited to, families with

children, older people, people with disabilities, service families and people wishing to build their

own homes);

» identify the size, type, tenure and range of housing that is required in particular locations,

reflecting local demand; and

» where they have identified that affordable housing is needed, set policies for meeting this need

on site, unless off-site provision or a financial contribution of broadly equivalent value can be

robustly justified (for example to improve or make more effective use of the existing housing

stock) and the agreed approach contributes to the objective of creating mixed and balanced

communities. Such policies should be sufficiently flexible to take account of changing market

conditions over time.

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), paragraph 50

6.2 On this basis, Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) sets out that:

Once an overall housing figure has been identified, plan makers will need to break this down by

tenure, household type (singles, couples and families) and household size. Plan makers should

therefore examine current and future trends of:

» the proportion of the population of different age profile;

» the types of household (e.g. singles, couples, families by age group, numbers of children and

dependents);

» the current housing stock size of dwellings (e.g. one, two+ bedrooms);

» the tenure composition of housing.

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This information should be drawn together to understand how age profile and household mix relate

to each other, and how this may change in the future. When considering future need for different

types of housing, plan makers will need to consider whether they plan to attract a different age

profile e.g. increasing the number of working age people.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2015), ID 2a-021

Projected Population Age Profile 6.3 Population projections based on long-term migration trends and which take account of local

demographic factors were considered in Chapter 3. These projections show that the population is

likely to increase from 203,100 persons to 212,700 persons over the 24-year period 2015-30; a 15-year

increase of around 9,600 persons. The equivalent growth for Newcastle upon Tyne is 30,700 persons.

Figure 90 and Figure 91 show the projected change in population by 5-year age band for the 15-year

Plan period 2015-30 based on the detailed data previously presented in Figure 35 for Gateshead and

Figure 37 for Newcastle upon Tyne.

6.4 The number of persons in most age groups is projected to increase, built for Gateshead the dominant

area for growth is in the population aged over 60 years. There is also projected to be strong growth

for Newcastle upon Tyne in the over 70 years category, but Newcastle upon Tyne does also have a

younger population than Gateshead and this is reflected in the projected growth in children in the

area. This is particularly important when establishing the types of housing required and the need for

housing specifically for older people. The large student population in Newcastle upon Tyne (42,565 in

2014/15) is also included in the figures and is reflected in the large number of 20-24 year olds.

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Figure 90: Gateshead population projections 2015-30 by 5-year age cohort based SHMA population projections

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Figure 91: Newcastle upon Tyne population projections 2015-30 by 5-year age cohort based SHMA population projections

Household Projections 6.5 Household projections are produced from the demographic analysis in the Housing Mix model in 5

year tranches. By considering the changes over time, it is possible to identify key trends which may

have implications for future housing need.

6.6 Figure 92 summarises the total number of households in 2015 and 2030 in terms of the age of

household representatives, together with the change in the number of households in each category

over the 15-years.

6.7 The trend-based household projections identified a growth of around 7,400 households for Gateshead

and 16,100 households for Newcastle upon Tyne. Nevertheless, the SHMA recommended that a

higher number of dwellings should be provided in order to respond to vacancies and second homes,

and suppressed household formation (Figure 89).

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Figure 92: Total projected households for 2015 and 2030 and summary of 15-year change by age of household representative

for Gateshead (Note: Figures may not sum due to rounding)

Age of Household Representative

TOTAL 15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75-84 85+

TOTAL HOUSEHOLDS

2015 3,700 14,100 14,700 17,200 14,900 13,300 9,700 3,500 91,100

2030 3,900 14,000 17,300 14,400 15,700 15,900 12,100 5,200 98,400

TOTAL CHANGE 2015-2030

+200 -200 +2,600 -2,800 +800 +2,700 +2,400 +1,700 +7,400

Figure 93: Total projected households for 2015 and 2030 and summary of 15-year change by age of household representative

for Newcastle upon Tyne (Note: Figures may not sum due to rounding)

Age of Household Representative

TOTAL 15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75-84 85+

TOTAL HOUSEHOLDS

2015 10,200 22,900 20,100 21,600 19,100 15,100 10,400 4,400 123,800

2030 11,700 23,300 24,700 20,100 20,000 19,700 14,200 6,200 139,900

TOTAL CHANGE 2015-2030

+1,600 +400 +4,600 -1,400 900 +4,600 +3,800 +1,800 +16,100

6.8 Considering this growth in terms of the age of household representatives, it is evident that a key

change is the increase in older people household types. Increase in households aged 65+ represents

92% of the household growth in Gateshead and 63% in Newcastle upon Tyne.

6.9 However, it is important to note that many of these older households will already be established and

living in existing homes; they will simply get older during the Plan period.

6.10 Further, it is therefore also important to consider household growth in relation to younger age cohorts

as this is more likely to lead to a need for new homes.

6.11 Whilst the increase in overall households is largest amongst those aged 65+, it is from amongst

younger aged households (i.e. those in their 20’s and 30’s) where the need for new homes will come.

However, the total number of new households is likely to be more than double the overall household

growth; so it is also important to recognise that many new households will buy or rent existing

housing, and not all new housing will be occupied by new households.

Projected Household Types

6.12 When considering future need for different types of housing, it is important to recognise that

households of different ages are likely to have different housing needs. Similarly, households of

different types (singles, couples and families) within each age group will also have different housing

needs.

Figure 94 and Figure 95 show the household numbers for 2015 and 2030 based on the trend-based

projections by household type and age; together with the net change for each group. This is based on

the number in each age category rather than the number in each age cohort, as it is assumed that the

housing needs are more likely to be influenced by the actual age rather than the year of birth.

6.13 In summary:

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» Single person households represent a far large component of the growth in Newcastle upon

Tyne than in Gateshead;

» Lone parents are projected to grow in both boroughs;

» Couples without dependent children represent a much more important part of the growth in

Gateshead than in Newcastle upon Tyne;

» Couple families with dependent children represent only a small part of the growth in

Gateshead, but a higher share in Newcastle upon Tyne; and

» “Other” households represent over a quarter of the growth in both areas.

Figure 94: Total projected households for 2015 and 2030 and summary of 15-year change by household type and age of

household representative for Gateshead (Note: Figures may not sum due to rounding)

Household Type Age of Household Representative

TOTAL 15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75-84 85+

Total Households 2015

Single person 1,700 4,100 3,700 3,700 4,000 4,200 6,000 2,500 29,800

Couple without children 300 2,800 1,600 6,800 9,100 7,700 2,200 700 31,300

Couple with child(ren) 300 3,600 6,300 4,400 700 100 0 0 15,500

Lone parent 1,200 3,000 2,600 900 100 0 0 0 7,900

Other households 200 600 500 1,300 900 1,200 1,500 300 6,600

TOTAL 3,700 14,100 14,700 17,200 14,900 13,300 9,700 3,500 91,100

Total Households 2030

Single person 1,900 4,200 4,800 2,800 3,700 3,500 6,200 3,300 30,400

Couple without children 100 2,700 1,300 5,100 10,000 10,300 3,100 1,300 34,000

Couple with child(ren) 200 2,800 7,200 4,300 900 300 0 0 15,700

Lone parent 1,400 3,500 3,500 900 200 100 100 100 9,700

Other households 200 800 500 1,300 800 1,800 2,600 500 8,600

TOTAL 3,900 14,000 17,300 14,400 15,700 15,900 12,100 5,200 98,400

Total Change 2015-2030

Single person +300 +100 +1,100 -900 -300 -700 +200 +800 +600

Couple without children -200 -100 -300 -1,700 +900 +2,700 +1,000 +600 +2,700

Couple with child(ren) -100 -800 +900 -100 +200 +100 0 0 +200

Lone parent +300 +400 +900 0 +100 0 0 0 +1,800

Other households 0 +200 0 -100 -100 +600 +1,100 +200 +2,000

TOTAL CHANGE +200 -200 +2,600 -2,800 +800 +2,700 +2,400 +1,700 +7,400

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Figure 95: Total projected households for 2015 and 2030 and summary of 15-year change by household type and age of

household representative for Newcastle upon Tyne (Note: Figures may not sum due to rounding)

Household Type Age of Household Representative

TOTAL 15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75-84 85+

Total Households 2015

Single person 1,300 7,500 5,000 6,000 7,000 6,500 6,800 3,100 43,400

Couple without children 1,100 5,400 2,200 6,100 9,100 7,300 2,100 900 34,200

Couple with child(ren) 300 3,400 8,600 6,500 1,600 200 0 0 20,700

Lone parent 1,000 3,400 3,600 1,800 400 100 100 0 10,300

Other households 6,500 3,300 800 1,100 900 1,000 1,300 300 15,200

TOTAL 10,200 22,900 20,100 21,600 19,100 15,100 10,400 4,400 123,800

Total Households 2030

Single person 400 8,000 6,300 5,500 7,600 8,300 8,600 4,300 49,000

Couple without children 1,200 5,500 2,200 4,200 8,700 9,800 3,100 1,500 36,300

Couple with child(ren) 200 1,900 10,400 7,600 2,600 500 0 100 23,200

Lone parent 600 3,300 5,100 2,300 500 200 200 100 12,300

Other households 9,400 4,600 700 600 600 1,000 2,200 200 19,200

TOTAL 11,700 23,300 24,700 20,100 20,000 19,700 14,200 6,200 139,900

Total Change 2015-2030

Single person -900 +500 +1,300 -500 +500 +1,800 +1,800 +1,200 +5,700

Couple without children 0 +200 0 -1,900 -400 +2,500 +1,000 +600 +2,000

Couple with child(ren) -100 -1,500 +1,800 +1,000 +1,000 +200 0 0 +2,400

Lone parent -300 -100 +1,500 +500 +200 +100 +100 0 +2,000

Other households +2,900 +1,300 0 -500 -400 0 +800 0 +4,100

TOTAL CHANGE +1,600 +400 +4,600 -1,400 +900 +4,600 +3,800 +1,800 +16,100

Housing Mix: Size and Tenure 6.14 When considering future need for different types of housing, the model assumes that the housing mix

needed by households of each household type and age will reflect current patterns. For example, a

growth in single person households aged 65-74 will lead to an increase in the need for the type of

housing currently occupied by single person households of this age. On this basis, where such

households continue to live in family housing despite no longer having a family living with them, this

need for family housing will still be counted.

6.15 Figure 96 and Figure 97 identifies the need for market housing and affordable housing of different

types (in terms of flats and houses) and sizes (in terms of number of bedrooms). Whilst there is

projected to be an increase of 5,700 extra single person households in Newcastle upon Tyne, only

2,807 extra dwellings have one bedroom (631 market homes and 2,175 affordable homes). This

reflects that many single person households will continue to occupy family housing in which they

already live.

6.16 The number of flats with more than 2 bedrooms is too small to be reported separately and is included

within “2+ bedrooms”.

6.17 The housing mix figures are based upon current rates of occupation of market housing by different household sizes. Homes which could have been capable of providing a home for families have in the past been lost to the increasing student and HMO market. To ensure the provision of family housing, Gateshead and Newcastle Core Strategy 2010-2030 (adopted 2015) sets out in Policy CS11 “Providing a Range and Choice of Housing” a requirement for: “60% of new private housing across the plan area

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being suitable for and attractive to families, with a minimum target of 16,000 new homes to have three or more bedrooms.” This objective represents the Councils attempt take positive action to retain and attract working families in view of the economic growth aspirations and is to be carried through the plan period to 2030. The Core Strategy has been tested via Examination in Public and is part of the overall adopted long term spatial strategy and strategic policy for both areas. While the OAN figures in Figure 94 and Figure 95 necessarily objectively reflect the current situation, policy CS11 reflects the need to ensure thriving communities and economic development.

Figure 96: Housing mix of OAN for market and affordable housing in Gateshead (Source: ORS Housing Model. Note: Figures may

not sum exactly due to arithmetic rounding)

GATESHEAD Market Housing

Affordable Housing

TOTAL

Flat 1 bedroom 139 746 885

2+ bedrooms 122 252 373

House

2 bedrooms 2,394 889 3,283

3 bedrooms 1,887 970 2,857

4 bedrooms 85 333 418

5+ bedrooms -56 88 32

TOTAL 4,571 3,277 7,848

Figure 97: Housing mix of OAN for market and affordable housing in Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: ORS Housing Model. Note:

Figures may not sum exactly due to arithmetic rounding)

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE Market Housing

Affordable Housing

TOTAL

Flat 1 bedroom 631 2,175 2,807

2+ bedrooms 2,746 901 3,647

House

2 bedrooms 1,568 854 2,422

3 bedrooms 5,022 1,474 6,496

4 bedrooms 934 472 1,406

5+ bedrooms 9 137 146

TOTAL 10,910 6,014 16,924

Affordable Housing Tenure

6.18 Within the overall need of affordable homes identified by the model, it is possible to consider the mix

of different affordable housing products that would be appropriate based on the mix of households

needing affordable housing.

6.19 The following two Figures set out the weekly rents for different property sizes in Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne. This includes:

» Median private rent;

» Local Housing Allowance (LHA) maximum (previously based on the 30th percentile private

rent, however more recent increases are based on Consumer Price index (CPI) and rates were

frozen in the July 2015 Budget; and

» Affordable rent, based on 80% of the median private rent;

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Figure 98: Weekly rent thresholds in Gateshead (Source: Valuation Office Agency 2014/15; Homes and Communities Agency

2017)

Median

Private Rent

Maximum Local Housing

Allowance

Affordable Rent (80% of median)

1 bedroom £96.92 £74.15 £77.54

2 bedrooms £109.62 £87.45 £87.69

3 bedrooms £126.92 £103.56 £101.54

4+ bedrooms £173.08 £138.08 £138.46

Figure 99: Weekly rent thresholds in Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: Valuation Office Agency; Homes and Communities Agency)

Median

Private Rent

Maximum Local Housing

Allowance

Affordable Rent (80% of median)

1 bedroom £103.85 £74.15 £83.08

2 bedrooms £126.92 £87.45 £101.54

3 bedrooms £144.23 £103.56 £115.38

4+ bedrooms £219.23 £138.08 £175.38

6.20 It is evident that across all property sizes, the median private rent is the highest followed in turn by the

maximum LHA and affordable rent. As affordable rent (at 80% of median private rent) is generally

lower than the maximum LHA rate for the equivalent property size, households would not currently be

able to claim housing benefit to cover the full cost of affordable rent (where they were entitled to do

so based on their circumstances); although the relationship between these two rates could change in

future.

6.21 Households claiming out-of-work benefits are also subject to a cap of £500 per week (for lone parents

and couples) or £350 per week (for single persons), which could affect the amount of housing benefit

received by some households (especially those with larger families needing larger properties). These

limits were reduced in the July 2015 Budget to a maximum of £20,000 per year (outside London) and

this lower rate will affect more households. Nevertheless, households that qualify for Working Tax

Credit and those that receive various disability related benefits or armed forces pensions are exempt

from the cap.

Household Affordability

6.22 In order to profile the affordability of the mix of households needing affordable housing, income data

from the English Housing Survey and ONS Survey of Personal Incomes has been combined and

modelled to establish the income distribution by household type and age in each local authority area.

This excludes any income from housing benefit, as the analysis seeks to determine to what extent

housing benefit would be needed by households in each group.

6.23 Figure 100 and Figure 101 illustrates the affordability of households needing affordable housing by

property size in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne; identifying those able to afford affordable rent

and target rent (all without housing benefit subsidy) and those that would need financial support to

afford target rent. The analysis is based on two scenarios:

» Spending up to 25% of gross household income (excluding housing benefit) on housing costs;

and

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» Spending up to 35% of gross household income (excluding housing benefit) on housing costs.

6.24 The two scenarios represent an upper and lower limit. The lower limit figure of 25% originated in the

Strategic Housing Market Assessments Practice Guidance Version 2 (CLG August 2007, withdrawn

March 2014)44, which states:

“A household can be considered able to afford market house renting in cases where the rent

payable was up to 25 per cent of their gross household income.” (page 42)

6.25 The upper limit of 35% is used following the guidance of the Housing and Economic Development

Needs Assessments PPG (CLG March 2015)45 which sets out the types of households to be considered

in housing need, the first of these is:

“homeless households or insecure tenure (eg housing that is too expensive compared to

disposable income)” (Paragraph: 023 Reference ID: 2a-023-20140306)

6.26 The change in PPG means that we can now expect some households to pay more than 25% of gross

income. Most of these households will be in need of support, either by being provided social housing

or by being in receipt of Housing Benefit. For those households, particularly those with no state

supported income, such as Housing Benefit, it seems unreasonable for them to pay more than half

their disposable income. For many households paying more than half of disposable income would be

too expensive compared to disposable income when taken together with other household expenditure

and would therefore lead to those households falling into housing need. This is particularly relevant to

households on low incomes but not in receipt of Housing Benefit.

6.27 The English Housing Survey (EHS) 2015-1646 for England presents the percentage of total gross

household income spent on housing costs47:

» For the total income from all income earners in the household, irrespective of whether

they contribute to the housing cost, and excluding HB, private renting households spent

on average 41% of their gross income on rent, while social renting households spent 37%

of their gross income on rent.

» For the total income from the Household Reference Person and partner, and excluding

HB, private renting households spent on average 48% of their gross income on rent, while

social renting households spent 40% of their gross income on rent.

6.28 The EHS demonstrates that irrespective of whether or not it is desirable, many households pay more

than 35% of gross income on their housing costs, including in social rented properties.

6.29 This leads to our judgement that 35% is a reasonable upper limit at which households on lower

incomes could afford rent without falling into housing need. While we have reached this conclusion by

following the guidance and a logical process, it is a judgement and other percentages could be justified

depending on housing costs and incomes in a local area.

44

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/strategic-housing-market-assessments-practice-guidance 45

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/housing-and-economic-development-needs-assessments 46 https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/english-housing-survey-2015-to-2016-headline-report 47

“Annex Table 1.13: Mortgage/rent as a proportion of household income (including and excluding housing benefit), by tenure, 2010-11 to 2015-16”

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Figure 100: Affordability of households needing affordable housing by property size in Gateshead (Note: Weekly costs based on

data in Figure 98)

Figure 101: Affordability of households needing affordable housing by property size in Newcastle upon Tyne (Note: Weekly costs

based on data in Figure 98) –

6.30 Figure 102 sets out the affordable housing mix broken down by the modelled household affordability

for the two scenarios. In both scenarios, more than half of the households in need of affordable

housing would not be able to afford the relevant Target Social Rent for a property of the size needed.

6.31 Providing new affordable rented housing based on Target Social Rents would enable more households

to pay their rent without housing benefit support than would be able to do so if new housing was

provided as Affordable Rent. If new affordable rented housing was provided with Affordable Rents

(based on 80% of median private rent), these some households would continue to depend on housing

benefit.

6.32 Between 790 and 1,207 households in Gateshead in need of affordable housing and 845 and 1,279

household in need in Newcastle upon Tyne (depending on the proportion of income assumed) could

afford Affordable Rent (without housing benefit support). Some of these households may also be able

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51

56

62

3

6

4

4

3

6

4

5

17

29

26

20

25

43

40

33

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Up to 25% of income

1-bed

2-bed

3-bed

4-bed

Up to 35% of income

1-bed

2-bed

3-bed

4-bed

Unable to afford Target Rent Can afford Target Rent Can afford Affordable Rent

90

83

76

77

79

75

66

64

3

5

2

10

9

8

1

11

7

12

22

13

11

18

33

25

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Up to 25% of income

1-bed

2-bed

3-bed

4-bed

Up to 35% of income

1-bed

2-bed

3-bed

4-bed

Unable to afford Target Rent Can afford Target Rent Can afford Affordable Rent

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to afford shared equity or other forms of low cost home ownership, if this can be delivered based on a

model where the weekly costs are similar to Affordable Rent.

6.33 It is for the local authorities to set their own policies, but the policy implications of Figure 102 are that,

depending on which level of affordability is used (25% or 35% of income):

» between 1,900 and 2,350 households in Gateshead would benefit from affordable

housing based on Target Rents, with the additional benefit of lowering the cost of Housing

Benefit;

» between 4,300 and 5,000 households in Newcastle upon Tyne would benefit from

affordable housing based on Target Rents, with the additional benefit of lowering the cost

of Housing Benefit;

» the market for low cost home ownership in Gateshead includes between 800 and 1,200

households who can afford Affordable rent without Housing Benefit;

» the market for low cost home ownership in Newcastle upon Tyne includes between 850

and 1,300 households who can afford Affordable rent without Housing Benefit.

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Figure 102: Affordable housing mix by household affordability (Source: ORS Housing Model. Note: Figures may not sum due to

rounding)

GATESHEAD Unable to afford

Target Rent Can afford

Target Rent Can afford

Affordable Rent TOTAL

25% OF INCOME

Flat 1 bedroom 586 24 136 746

2+ bedrooms 165 15 72 252

House

2 bedrooms 583 52 254 889

3 bedrooms 684 39 247 970

4+ bedrooms 323 17 81 421

TOTAL 2,342 146 790 3,277

35% OF INCOME

Flat 1 bedroom 521 26 199 746

2+ bedrooms 132 14 106 252

House

2 bedrooms 466 48 375 889

3 bedrooms 544 38 388 970

4+ bedrooms 262 20 139 421

TOTAL 1,926 144 1,207 3,277

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE Unable to afford

Target Rent Can afford

Target Rent Can afford

Affordable Rent TOTAL

25% OF INCOME

Flat 1 bedroom 1,923 77 174 2,175

2+ bedrooms 734 45 123 901

House

2 bedrooms 696 42 116 854

3 bedrooms 1,100 24 350 1,474

4+ bedrooms 465 62 82 609

TOTAL 4,918 250 845 6,014

35% OF INCOME

Flat 1 bedroom 1,693 209 273 2,175

2+ bedrooms 659 68 174 901

House

2 bedrooms 624 64 165 854

3 bedrooms 945 21 508 1,474

4+ bedrooms 387 64 158 609

TOTAL 4,308 426 1,279 6,014

Low Cost Home Ownership

6.34 In addition to affordable housing for rent, a range of Low Cost Home Ownership (LCHO) products have

also been developed to assist households into homeownership. Figure 103 sets out the weekly costs

associated with shared ownership properties of different sizes, taking account of the differential full

market prices. This illustration is based on a shared ownership model currently promoted in the HMA:

» 40% equity share purchased by the occupier;

» 5% of the equity purchased is available as a deposit;

» Mortgage costs base based on a 25-year repayment mortgage at 6.0% interest;

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» Rent based on 2.75% of the retained equity paid each year; and

» Service charge of £10 per week.

6.35 Based on this model, it is evident that in Gateshead, the weekly costs are lower than the equivalent

median private rent and the maximum LHA with the exception of 4+ bedroom properties, where the

weekly costs are higher than the maximum LHA rate.

6.36 In Newcastle upon Tyne, the weekly costs for 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom properties are lower than

the equivalent median private rent and the maximum LHA, while 3 bedroom and 4+ bedroom

properties weekly costs are lower than the equivalent median private rent, but higher than the

maximum LHA rate.

Figure 103: Shared ownership costs (Note: Mortgage costs based on a 25-year repayment mortgage at 6.0% interest. Rent based

on 2.75% of the retained equity annually. Service charge assumed to be £10 per week)

Property

Value

40% Equity Share

5% Deposit

Weekly Costs

Mortgage Rent Service Charge

TOTAL

GATESHEAD

1 bedroom £64,950 £25,980 £1,299 £37.03 £20.55 £10.00 £67.58

2 bedrooms £77,000 £30,800 £1,540 £43.90 £24.37 £10.00 £78.26

3 bedrooms £105,000 £42,000 £2,100 £59.86 £33.23 £10.00 £103.09

4+ bedrooms £215,000 £86,000 £4,300 £122.57 £68.03 £10.00 £200.60

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

1 bedroom £67,500 £27,000 £1,350 £38.48 £21.36 £10.00 £69.84

2 bedrooms £87,000 £34,800 £1,740 £49.60 £27.53 £10.00 £87.13

3 bedrooms £110,000 £44,000 £2,200 £62.71 £34.81 £10.00 £107.52

4+ bedrooms £193,000 £77,200 £3,860 £110.03 £61.07 £10.00 £181.10

6.37 Figure 104 shows the sensitivity of weekly costs to the equity share purchased and presents this

relative to the equivalent local rents. It would appear that the model currently promoted (based on

40% equity share) remains appropriate for the area, given that higher equity shares tend to yield

weekly costs that are higher than private rent. However, 25% equity share may be more appropriate

for 4+ bedroom properties in Gateshead, based on the total weekly cost for shared ownership being

above both the LHA and the, higher, median market rent for equity shares of 30% or more.

6.38 There may also be a role for LCHO products at higher equity shares targeted at households able to

afford private rent but unable to afford home ownership. This would help “widen opportunities for

home ownership” (NPPF paragraph 50), but would be in addition to the need to deliver 3,600

affordable homes in the HMA over the 18-year Plan period.

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Figure 104: Total weekly costs for shared ownership based on different equity shares (Note: Mortgage costs based on a 25-year

repayment mortgage at 6.0% interest. Rent based on 2.75% of the retained equity annually. Service charge assumed

to be £10 per week. Cells highlighted in brown are above the LHA rate but below median private rent, cells in red are

above the equivalent median private rent. No cells are lower than the equivalent maximum LHA)

Total Weekly Cost £

Property Value

Equity Share

25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50%

GATESHEAD

1 bedroom 64,950 58.83 61.75 64.66 67.58 70.50 73.41

2 bedrooms 77,000 67.89 71.35 74.81 78.26 81.72 85.18

3 bedrooms 105,000 88.94 93.66 98.37 103.09 107.80 112.51

4+ bedrooms 215,000 171.65 181.30 190.95 200.60 210.26 219.91

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

1 bedroom 67,500 60.75 63.78 66.81 69.84 72.87 75.90

2 bedrooms 87,000 75.41 79.32 83.22 87.13 91.03 94.94

3 bedrooms 110,000 92.70 97.64 102.58 107.52 112.46 117.39

4+ bedrooms 193,000 155.11 163.77 172.44 181.10 189.76 198.43

Starter Home Initiative

6.39 The NPPF identifies that local authorities should seek to “widen opportunities for home ownership”

(paragraph 50). Given this context, the Housing and Planning Act 2015 furthers this policy of

encouraging home ownership through promoting Starter Homes to provide properties that are more

affordable for first time buyers. The Act includes clauses stating that local authorities will have a

general duty to promote the supply of Starter Homes through planning.

6.40 The Act defines a Starter Home as a new dwelling, only available for purchase by qualifying first-time

buyers, which is to be sold at a discount of at least 20% of the market value and for less than the price

cap (of £250,000 outside Greater London), and is subject to restrictions on sale or letting for the initial

5-year period of occupancy. Figure 105 sets out the weekly costs based on the same property values

considered when analysing low cost home ownership housing options.

Figure 105: Starter Home Initiative (Note: Mortgage costs based on a 25-year repayment mortgage at 6.0% interest)

Property

Value 80% Equity

Share 10% Deposit

Weekly Costs

Mortgage Service Charge TOTAL

GATESHEAD

1 bedroom £64,950 £51,960 £5,196 £70.16 £6.85 £77.01

2 bedrooms £77,000 £61,600 £6,160 £83.17 £8.12 £91.30

3 bedrooms £105,000 £84,000 £8,400 £113.42 £11.08 £124.49

4+ bedrooms £215,000 £172,000 £17,200 £232.24 £22.68 £254.91

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

1 bedroom £67,500 £54,000 £5,400 £72.91 £7.12 £80.03

2 bedrooms £87,000 £69,600 £6,960 £93.97 £9.18 £103.15

3 bedrooms £110,000 £88,000 £8,800 £118.82 £11.60 £130.42

4+ bedrooms £193,000 £154,400 £15,440 £208.47 £20.36 £228.83

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6.41 It is evident that the weekly costs associated with Starter Homes are notably higher than low cost

home ownership, but lower than median private sector rents other than for 4+ bedroom properties.

The initiative could widen opportunities for homeownership for those households able to afford

market rents but unable to afford to buy housing in the HMA.

Summary of Housing Costs

6.42 Figure 106 and Figure 107 summarises the weekly costs for the range of different housing options

discussed above for each property size.

Figure 106: Comparison of weekly housing costs by property size for Gateshead

Starter Home Initiative (80%

equity)

Shared ownership (40%

equity)

Median Private Rent

Maximum Local Housing

Allowance

Affordable Rent (80% median)

1 bedroom £77.01 £67.58 £96.92 £74.15 £77.54

2 bedrooms £91.30 £78.26 £109.62 £87.45 £87.69

3 bedrooms £124.49 £103.09 £126.92 £103.56 £101.54

4+ bedrooms £254.91 £200.60 £173.08 £138.08 £138.46

Figure 107: Comparison of weekly housing costs by property size for Newcastle upon Tyne

Starter Home Initiative (80%

equity)

Shared ownership (40%

equity)

Median Private Rent

Maximum Local Housing

Allowance

Affordable Rent (80% median)

1 bedroom £80.03 £69.84 £103.85 £74.15 £83.08

2 bedrooms £103.15 £87.13 £126.92 £87.45 £101.54

3 bedrooms £130.42 £107.52 £144.23 £103.56 £115.38

4+ bedrooms £228.83 £181.10 £219.23 £138.08 £175.38

The Private Rented Sector 6.43 The English Housing Survey (EHS) 2014-1548 identified that 19% (4.3 million) of households were

renting from a private landlord, much higher than the rate of 12% a decade earlier in 2004-05. The

EHS also shows that households aged 25-34 were more likely to be renting privately (46%) than buying

a home, up from 24% in 2004-05. Owner occupation in this age group dropped from 57% to 37% over

the same 10 year period.

6.44 Growth in the Sector seems likely to continue, driven by a combination of demand and supply factors:

» Increasing demand from more households;

» Recent reductions in incomes (in real terms);

» Affordability of owner occupation reducing;

» Changing Bank lending practices: the number of Buy-to-Let (BTL) mortgages granted in 2014

(c.30,000 monthly average) is higher than those granted to First-time Buyers (c.25,000); and

» Pensions reform: pension drawdowns invested in BTL property.

48 https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/501065/EHS_Headline_report_2014-15.pdf

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6.45 The growth of the Sector has been acknowledged as both a growing and long term option for meeting

the nation’s housing need. CLG (with the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association forecast) that

the private rented sector will increase in size to 35% nationally by 203249. On this basis, the number of

households renting privately could double again over the next twenty years.

6.46 Given this context, PPG recognises the importance of understanding the likely future role of the

private rented sector:

The private rented sector

Tenure data from the Office of National Statistics can be used to understand the future need for

private rented sector housing. However, this will be based on past trends. Market signals in the

demand for private rented sector housing could be indicated from a change in rents.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-021

6.47 Policy by both Government and Local Authorities is focused on improving management and

maintenance in the sector (via licensing or self-regulation schemes) and expanding supply50 (including

the Build to Rent investment scheme51). The Government published “Improving the Private Rented

Sector and Tackling Bad Practice: A guide for local authorities” in March 201552, and the Foreword by

the Minister stated:

“The private rented sector is an important and growing part of our housing market, housing

4.4 million households in England. The quality of housing in the sector has improved

dramatically over the last decade. It is now the second largest tenure and this growth is

forecast to continue growing. I am proud of this growth as it shows increasing choice,

improving standards whilst helping to keep rents affordable. The Government supports a

bigger and better private rented sector and wants to see this growth continue.”

6.48 The policy to support low-income households in the private rented sector with housing benefit is long-

standing and housing benefit is explicitly factored into the long-term forecasts for public spending.

However, there have been a number of legislative changes affecting the calculation and payment of

housing benefit in the private rented sector, and these are set out below:

Figure 108: Summary of legislative changes affecting private tenants’ LHA (Source: HM Treasury, DWP)

Effective from Change

April 2011 Introduction of absolute caps on the maximum rates that can be paid for each size of property

Ending of the 5 bedroom rate – LHA restricted to 4 bedroom rate

Stopping claimants being able to keep up to a £15 ‘excess’ above their actual rent if it is below the LHA

Increasing deductions for non-dependants living with HB claimants

Increasing the Government’s contribution to Discretionary Housing Payments

Amending size criteria to allow an extra bedroom for disabled claimants with a non-resident carer

October 2011 Setting maximum LHA at the 30th percentile of local rents instead of the median

January 2012 Increasing age qualification for Shared Accommodation Rate from 25 to 35 years old

April 2013 Increasing LHA rates over time by the Consumer Price Index instead of referencing market rents –

49 http://news.rla.org.uk/rpi-rent-revolution/ 50 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/private-rented-homes-review-of-the-barriers-to-institutional-investment 51 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/build-to-rent-round-2-initial-due-diligence 52 https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/412921/Improving_private_rented_sector.pdf

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Effective from Change

increase by 1% from April 2014 except in high rent areas

Reducing LHA by 10% for those claiming JSA for over a year – not implemented

Council Tax Benefit replaced by localised Council Tax Reduction schemes

Parts of the Social Fund abolished, including Community Care grants and Crisis Loans

Universal Credit implementation begins (with a pathfinder) to complete by 2017

Ending of the spare room subsidy (‘bedroom tax’)

June 2013 End of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP) begins for new claims

July 2013 Benefit cap implementation

Universal Credit pathfinder expands

October 2013 Temporary Accommodation to have housing costs met in line with Local Housing Allowance rates

Reassessment of existing Disability Living Allowance migration to Personal Independence Payment begins

Universal Credit roll-out begins

Incapacity benefit abolished; all claimants move to Employment Support Allowance (ESA) by late 2017

Expansion of PIP/DLA reassessment for existing claimants

April 2014 Removal of access to Housing Benefit for EEA Jobseekers

LHA uprating limited to 1 per cent

Help to work scheme introduced for those unemployed 2 years +

April 2016 State Pensions Age increases begin

Four year freeze to certain working age benefits (pensioner benefits, DLA, PIP not frozen)

Four-year freeze to local housing allowance rates

Lowering the benefit cap to £23,000 in London and £20,000 elsewhere

Universal credit claims will be limited to two children from April 2017 (with some exceptions)

Removing entitlement to housing support for those aged 21 or under (with some exemptions)

6.49 It is therefore important for local authorities to consider the role of the private rented sector at a local

level and recognise the way in which private rented housing will continue to provide housing options

for households unable to afford their housing costs in future. Nevertheless, local authorities need to

understand the range of different households in their areas that currently rent from private landlords

and consider their policy responses accordingly.

Private Rented Sector in Gateshead

6.50 Considering the trends of tenure mix for Gateshead, it is evident that there have been some significant

changes in the balance between owner occupiers and tenants renting their home.

» From 1981-1991: the number of owner occupiers climbed (increasing from 31K to 44K

households, a gain of thirteen thousand). This was partly as a consequence of the Right to

Buy, which led to a decline in the number of social tenants (reducing from 40K to 33K

households, a loss of 7K); there was also a reduction in the number of private tenants (from

8K to 6K).

» From 1991-2001: the number of owner occupiers continued to climb albeit at a slower pace

(increasing from 44K to 49K households, a gain of five thousand). The number of social

tenants reduced further (from 33K to 29K households); whereas the number of private

tenants remained constant (at 6K).

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» From 2001-2011: the number of owner occupiers increased further (from 49K to 52K

households, a gain of three thousand) whilst the number of private tenants increased

substantially (from 6K to12K households, a gain of six thousand). The number of social

tenants reduced even further (from 29K to 25K households, a reduction of four thousand).

6.51 It is evident that the overall balance between owners and renters has changed in 2011 from the

position in 1981, with 39% owning in 1981 and 59% owning in 2011. The balance between social rent

and private rent has also changed significantly: with 17% of tenants rented privately in 1981 (17% out

of 61%) whereas almost two-thirds rented privately in 2011 (32% out of 41%).

Figure 109: Number of Households by Tenure 1981-2011

(Source: UK Census of Population)

Figure 110: Percentage of Households by Tenure 1981-2011

(Source: UK Census of Population)

Figure 111: Households by Tenure 1981-2011 (Source: UK Census of Population)

Tenure Total Households

1981 1991 2001 2011

Owner occupied 30,500 43,600 49,000 52,300

Private rent 8,000 5,900 6,400 11,900

Social rent 40,400 33,300 28,900 24,900

TOTAL 78,900 82,800 84,300 89,200

Owner occupied 38.7% 52.7% 58.1% 58.6%

Private rent 10.1% 7.1% 7.6% 13.4%

Social rent 51.2% 40.2% 34.3% 28.0%

6.52 Based on the range of information available about tenants currently renting privately in Gateshead, it

is helpful to consider the mix of different types of household living in the area. Based on our estimate

for the 2015 position:

» 220 properties are rented by households that are students, although this is only 2% of the

sector;

» 4,700 properties are rented by households in receipt of housing benefit, two-fifths (40%) of

the sector;

» A further 6,900 households are renting privately through choice, due to their current

personal, family, employment or other circumstances.

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

Owner Occupied Private Rent Social Rent

Tho

usa

nd

s

1981 1991 2001 2011

39%

53%

58% 59%

10% 7% 8%

13%

51%

40%

34%

28%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

1981 1991 2001 2011

Owner Occupied Private Rent Social Rent

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Figure 112: Mix of household types living in the private rented sector (Source: ORS Housing Model and Council Tax Base)

Private Rented Sector in Newcastle upon Tyne

6.53 Considering the trends of tenure mix for Newcastle upon Tyne, it is evident that there have been some

significant changes in the balance between owner occupiers and tenants renting their home.

» From 1981-1991: the number of owner occupiers climbed (increasing from 41K to 56K

households, a gain of fifteen thousand). This was partly as a consequence of the Right to Buy,

which led to a decline in the number of social tenants (reducing from 51K to 44K households,

a loss of 7K) ; there was also a reduction in the number of private tenants (from 13K to 12K).

» From 1991-2001: the number of owner occupiers continued to climb albeit at a slower pace

(increasing from around 56K to 59K households, a gain of four thousand); however this was

alongside a growth of private tenants (increasing from 12K to 15K households, a gain of three

thousand). The number of social tenants reduced further (from 44K to 37K households).

» From 2001-2011: the number of owner occupiers reduced (falling from 59K to 58K

households, a loss of a one thousand) whilst the number of private tenants increased

substantially (from 15K to 24K households, a gain of nine thousand). The number of social

tenants reduced even further (from 37K to 35K households, a reduction of two thousand).

6.54 It is evident that the overall balance between owners and renters has changed in 2011 from the

position in 1981, with 39% owning in 1981 and 50% owning in 2011. The balance between social rent

and private rent has also changed significantly: two-in-ten tenants rented privately in 1981 (20% out of

61%) whereas over two-fifths rented privately in 2011 (41% out of 50%).

Student households

220

Households on housing benefit

4,700 Households choosing

private rent

6,900

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Figure 113: Number of Households by Tenure 1981-2011

(Source: UK Census of Population)

Figure 114: Percentage of Households by Tenure 1981-2011

(Source: UK Census of Population)

Figure 115: Households by Tenure 1981-2011 (Source: UK Census of Population)

Tenure Total Households

1981 1991 2001 2011

Owner occupied 40,900 55,700 59,300 58,400

Private rent 13,000 11,500 14,700 23,900

Social rent 51,200 44,400 37,200 34,900

TOTAL 105,200 111,600 111,200 117,200

Owner occupied 38.9% 49.9% 53.3% 49.9%

Private rent 12.4% 10.3% 13.2% 20.4%

Social rent 48.7% 39.8% 33.4% 29.7%

6.55 Based on the range of information available about tenants currently renting privately in Newcastle

upon Tyne, it is helpful to consider the mix of different types of household living in the area. Based on

our estimate for the 2015 position:

» 5,200 properties are rented by households that are students, over two-fifths (21%) of the

sector;

» 6,200 properties are rented by households in receipt of housing benefit, a quarter (25%) of

the sector;

» A further 13,600 households are renting privately; however if the proportion of owner

occupiers had not changed between 2001 and 2015, 3,200 of these households would have

owned their home. This represents over one in ten (13%) of all households renting privately;

and;

» 10,400 households are therefore renting privately through choice, due to their current

personal, family, employment or other circumstances.

6.56 It is important to recognise that the 3,200 households identified as “would be” owner occupiers are

able to rent market housing without financial support through housing benefit even if they cannot

afford to buy. These households do not meet the criteria to be included within the need for affordable

housing as they can afford private rented housing, possibly with housing benefit, and for this reason

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

Owner Occupied Private Rent Social Rent

Tho

usa

nd

s

1981 1991 2001 2011

39%

50% 53%

50%

12% 10%

13%

20%

49%

40%

33%

30%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

1981 1991 2001 2011

Owner Occupied Private Rent Social Rent

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they are not included in the need for affordable housing. As previously noted, the NPPF seeks to

“widen opportunities for home ownership” (paragraph 50) and national schemes such as Help-to-Buy

and the Starter Home Initiative aim to help people onto the housing ladder.

Figure 116: Mix of household types living in the private rented sector (Source: ORS Housing Model and Council Tax Base)

Black and Minority Ethnic Population 6.57 The 2011 Census classified ethnic groups on the basis of eighteen categories which are standardised

across all UK government sources (Figure 117).

6.58 These eighteen categories can be grouped together into five aggregate groups – these being White,

Mixed, Black, Asian and Other – and some information sources do not provide any details beyond

these broad groupings.

Figure 117: Ethnic Group Classification (Source: UK Census of Population 2011)

White Mixed/multiple

ethnic group

Asian/Asian

British

Black/African/

Caribbean/

Black British

Other ethnic

group

English/Welsh/Scottish/

British/Northern Irish/British

White and

Black Caribbean Indian African Arab

Irish

White and

Black African Pakistani

Caribbean

Any Other Ethnic

Group

Gypsy or Irish Traveller White and Asian Bangladeshi

Other Black background Other White background Other Mixed background

Chinese

Other Asian

background

6.59 Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne have a diverse population with many different ethnic groups

represented, but mostly in small numbers.

Student households

5,200

Households on housing benefit

6,200

Households choosing private rent

10,400

"Would be" owner occupiers

3,200

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Figure 118: Ethnic Group Profile of All Usual Residents in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: Census 2011)

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

White: English/Welsh/Scottish/Northern Irish/British 94.1% 81.9%

White: Irish 0.3% 0.7%

White: Gypsy or Irish Traveller 0.0% 0.1%

White: Other White 1.9% 2.9%

Mixed/multiple ethnic groups: White and Black Caribbean 0.2% 0.3%

Mixed/multiple ethnic groups: White and Black African 0.1% 0.3%

Mixed/multiple ethnic groups: White and Asian 0.3% 0.6%

Mixed/multiple ethnic groups: Other Mixed 0.2% 0.4%

Asian/Asian British: Indian 0.5% 1.8%

Asian/Asian British: Pakistani 0.3% 2.3%

Asian/Asian British: Bangladeshi 0.1% 1.7%

Asian/Asian British: Chinese 0.5% 2.2%

Asian/Asian British: Other Asian 0.5% 1.8%

Black/African/Caribbean/Black British: African 0.5% 1.7%

Black/African/Caribbean/Black British: Caribbean 0.0% 0.1%

Black/African/Caribbean/Black British: Other Black 0.0% 0.1%

Other ethnic group: Arab 0.1% 0.9%

Other ethnic group: Any other ethnic group 0.4% 0.5%

6.60 Even when ethnicity is considered by Head of Household only, the diversity of the local community is

still evident.

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Figure 119: Ethnic Group Profile of Household Reference Persons in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: Census 2011)

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

White: English/Welsh/Scottish/Northern Irish/British 92.1% 75.9%

White: Irish 0.3% 0.4%

White: Gypsy or Irish Traveller 0.1% 0.1%

White: Other White 2.9% 3.2%

Mixed/multiple ethnic group: White and Black Caribbean 0.2% 0.3%

Mixed/multiple ethnic group: White and Black African 0.1% 0.4%

Mixed/multiple ethnic group: White and Asian 0.2% 0.4%

Mixed/multiple ethnic group: Other Mixed 0.2% 0.3%

Asian/Asian British: Indian 0.6% 2.0%

Asian/Asian British: Pakistani 0.5% 4.3%

Asian/Asian British: Bangladeshi 0.2% 3.6%

Asian/Asian British: Chinese 0.4% 1.2%

Asian/Asian British: Other Asian 0.6% 2.3%

Black/African/Caribbean/Black British: African 0.8% 2.9%

Black/African/Caribbean/Black British: Caribbean 0.1% 0.1%

Black/African/Caribbean/Black British: Other Black 0.1% 0.1%

Other ethnic group: Arab 0.2% 1.8%

Other ethnic group: Any other ethnic group 0.6% 0.8%

6.61 A detailed stakeholder engagement with the BME community can be found in Stakeholder

Engagement with the BME Community. The engagement process considered a wide range of housing

issues. The points presented here are based on perceptions which were expressed in the Engagement

process and which relate directly to the SHMA as a market assessment:

» In Gateshead there is greater diversity in wards such as Bensham than in other areas. In

Newcastle upon Tyne wards such as Benwell and Elswick have greater diversity than

others; however wards such as Byker and Walker are increasing in diversity.

» In the past there had been greater numbers of migration from the Indian sub-continent

but now there is greater diversity, possibly because of people coming to live in the areas

from Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. People coming from South America may

be an emerging trend.

» In Gateshead there is an established orthodox Jewish community numbering several

thousand living in the Saltwell ward and Bensham area of Lobley Hill and Bensham ward.

» The Gateshead Jewish Community Housing Needs Survey (2017) found that the Jewish

community in Gateshead typically lives in large households which are concentrated in a

small area of the borough. Many are either currently overcrowded or anticipate being so

in the future; there is a shortage of suitable properties for them to purchase.

» The view of many stakeholders was that the majority of BME and minority communities

owned their properties and/or they aspire to homeownership. Although the younger

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generations aspire to owner occupation, affordability is a key issue, unless they have

parental financial support.

» Some communities prefer social rented accommodation because it may provide routes to

owner occupation through Right to Buy (RTB) or Right to Acquire (RTA).

» Although the majority of stakeholders are keen to see more intermediate housing

products such as shared ownership, the younger generation may have a lack of trust in

intermediate housing models.

» There is some evidence of a current demand and future need for 4+ bedroom family

houses that are affordable either to rent or buy; this is especially the case in wards where

there is greater diversity and families are larger. It would be necessary to work with

individual communities to assess more precisely where the demand is. Alongside the

demand for larger family homes is a preference to be close to facilities that are culturally

appropriate.

» The Chinese Community has a current and future need for 3+ family sized properties in

the social sector and options for older people to purchase small apartments in specific

culturally sensitive complexes with the option of sheltered housing support.

» Traditionally, many older BME people would have lived within the family unit; however

this tradition is changing in some communities. Although numbers are small at present

there will be the need for smaller units which are appropriate for older people to rent and

buy. Such schemes need to consider social, cultural and health requirements.

Service Families 6.62 Paragraph 50 of the NPPF identifies that local planning authorities should plan for the needs of

different groups in the community, including service families.

6.63 The Government made a commitment towards housing members of the armed forces in the Armed

Forces Covenant (2011) and “Laying the Foundations: A Housing Strategy for England 2011” (HM

Government). Subsequently, in June 2012, the Government revised Guidance regarding priority for

access to social housing for former members of the armed forces above that offered to other people in

housing need. Whereas Local authorities had been expected to give seriously injured service

personnel “additional preference” (higher priority) for the allocation of social housing since 2009, this

“additional preference” should now be given to applications from certain serving and ex-members of

the armed forces who come within the reasonable preference categories defined in sub-section 166A

(3) of the “Housing Act 1996” who have urgent housing needs.

6.64 “The Allocation of Housing (Qualification Criteria for Armed Forces Personnel) (England) Regulations

2012” and the “Housing Act 1996 (Additional Preference for Former Armed Forces Personnel) (England)

Regulations 2012” both strengthened the position of some armed forces personnel in seeking to

access social housing. There are a number of housing schemes that are available to the Service and Ex-

Service community under the HomeBuy umbrella. HomeBuy enables social tenants, Ministry of

Defence Personnel and other first time buyers to buy a share of a home and get a first step on the

housing ladder in England. In addition, the MOD Referral Scheme with Housing Associations in c.180

locations aims to provide low-cost, rented accommodation for people coming out of the Services.

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6.65 Mandatory Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) are available from local authorities, subject to a means

test, for essential adaptations to give disabled people better mobility at home and access to essential

facilities. “The Nation’s Commitment: Cross Government Support to our Armed Forces, their Families

and Veterans” (July 2008) made it clear that injured service personnel who bought a home through

what was then the Key Worker Living Scheme might be eligible for a DFG to carry out necessary

adaptation work.

6.66 Considering service families in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne, Figure 120 shows the number of

residents employed in the Armed Forces. There were a total of 242 service personnel living in

Gateshead and 510 service personnel living in Newcastle upon Tyne at the time of the 2011 Census,

the majority of these living in households.

Figure 120: Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne residents employed in the Armed Forces (Source: 2011 Census)

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

Usual residents employed in the Armed Forces

Living in a household 242 489

Living in a communal establishment 0 21

TOTAL 242 510

Percentage of population aged 16+ 0.1% 0.2%

6.67 This represents only 0.1% and 0.2% of the population respectively in Gateshead and Newcastle upon

Tyne aged 16 or over, therefore service families are relatively small in number in these areas. The

needs of these families are already included within the overall level of housing need identified for

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne.

People Wishing to Build their Own Homes 6.68 Paragraph 50 of the NPPF identifies that local planning authorities should plan for people wishing to

build their own homes, and PPG states:

People wishing to build their own homes

The Government wants to enable more people to build their own home and wants to make this form

of housing a mainstream housing option. There is strong industry evidence of significant demand

for such housing, as supported by successive surveys. Local planning authorities should, therefore,

plan to meet the strong latent demand for such housing.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-021

6.69 Over half of the population (53%) say that they would consider building their own home53 (either

directly or using the services of architects and contractors); but it’s likely that this figure conflates

aspiration with effective market demand. Self-build currently represents only around 10% of housing

completions in the UK, compared to rates of around 40% in France and 70 to 80% elsewhere in

Europe.

6.70 The attractiveness of self-build is primarily reduced costs; however the Joseph Rowntree Foundation

report “The current state of the self-build housing market” (2001) showed how the sector in the UK

53 Building Societies Association Survey of 2,051 UK consumers 2011

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had moved away from those unable to afford mainstream housing towards those who want an

individual property or a particular location.

6.71 “Laying the Foundations – a Housing Strategy for England” (HM Government, 2011)54 redefined self-

build as ‘Custom Build’ and aimed to double the size of this market, creating up to 100,000 additional

homes over the decade. “Build-it-yourself? Understanding the changing landscape of the UK self-build

market” (University of York, 2013) subsequently set out the main challenges to self-build projects and

made a number of recommendations for establishing self-build as a significant contributor to housing

supply. The previous Government also established a network of 11 Right to Build ‘Vanguards’ to test

how the ‘Right to Build’ could work in practice in a range of different circumstances.

6.72 In the Budget 2014, the Government announced an intention to consult on creating a new ‘Right to

Build’, giving ‘Custom Builders’ a right to a plot from councils. The Self-Build and Custom

Housebuilding Act55 2015 places a duty on local planning authorities to:

» Keep a register (and publicise this) of eligible prospective ‘custom’ and self-build individuals,

community groups and developers;

» Plan to bring forward sufficient serviced plots of land, probably with some form of planning

permission, to meet the need on the register and offer these plots to those on the register at

market value; and

» Allow developers working with a housing association to include self-build and custom-build as

contributing to their affordable housing contribution.

6.73 The 2015 Act was amended by the Housing and Planning Act 201656 which placed a duty on local

planning authorities to authorities to provide serviced sites which have planning permission that

allows for self or custom build:

An authority to which this section applies must give suitable development permission in

respect of enough serviced plots of land to meet the demand for self-build and custom

housebuilding in the authority’s area arising in each base period. (Section 2(a)(2))

6.74 Limited Government funding57 is currently available via the HCA Custom Build Homes Fund

programme (short-term project finance to help unlock group custom build or self-build schemes). The

Government announced further measures in 2014 (Custom Build Serviced Plots Loan Fund) to

encourage people to build their own homes, and to help make available 10,000 ‘shovel ready’ sites

with planning permission. Given this context, it is important to recognise that self-build could either

be market housing or low cost home ownership affordable housing products. Nevertheless, it is likely

that the majority will be market homes.

6.75 In May 2012 a Self-Build Portal58 run by the National Custom and Self Build Association (NCaSBA) was

launched. Figure 121 shows the current registrations from groups and individuals looking for land in

Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne on the ‘Need-a-Plot’ section of the portal. Whilst there is clearly

some interest in self-build across the area, this represents only a very limited number of people and an

exceptionally small proportion of the overall housing need identified each year.

54 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/laying-the-foundations-a-housing-strategy-for-england--2 55 http://services.parliament.uk/bills/2014-15/selfbuildandcustomhousebuilding.html 56

http://services.parliament.uk/bills/2015-16/housingandplanning.html 57 https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/364100/custom_build_homes_fund_prospectus_120712.pdf 58 http://www.selfbuildportal.org.uk/

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Figure 121: Group and Individual Registrations currently looking for land in and around Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne on

the ‘Need-a-Plot’ Portal (Source: NCaSBA, February 2017 and Google Maps)

6.76 Both Councils have established their Self and Custom Build Register, albeit the number of registrations

are currently low, including:

» 40 individual registrations and 2 group registrations all seeking plots in Gateshead;

» 36 individual registrations and 3 group registrations all seeking plots in Newcastle upon Tyne.

6.77 The register will be monitored to inform any policy implications arising and consideration will be given

to determine the extent to which any schemes can contribute to Custom Build

Housing for Older People 6.78 Britain’s population is ageing, and people can expect to live longer healthier lives than previous

generations. The older population is forecast to grow to 21.6m by 203759 for the over 60s, and from

1.4m (2012) to 3.6m by 2033 for the over 85s. Given this context, PPG recognises the importance of

providing housing for older people:

59 http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/npp/national-population-projections/2012-based-projections/stb-2012-based-npp-principal-and-key-variants.html#tab-Changing-Age-Structure

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Housing for older people

The need to provide housing for older people is critical given the projected increase in the number of

households aged 65 and over … Plan makers will need to consider the size, location and quality of

dwellings needed in the future for older people in order to allow them to live independently and

safely in their own home for as long as possible, or to move to more suitable accommodation if they

so wish. Supporting independent living can help to reduce the costs to health and social services,

and providing more options for older people to move could also free up houses that are under

occupied.

The future need for specialist accommodation for older people broken down by tenure and type

(e.g. sheltered, enhanced sheltered, extra care, registered care) should be assessed and can be

obtained from a number of online tool kits provided by the sector. The assessment should set out

the level of need for residential institutions (Use Class C2). Many older people may not want or need

specialist accommodation or care and may wish to stay or move to general housing that is already

suitable, such as bungalows, or homes which can be adapted to meet a change in their needs.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2015), ID 2a-021

6.79 The SHMA Update population projections identified that the population in Gateshead was likely to

increase over the period 2015 to 2030 from 203,100 persons to 212,650 persons over the 15-year

period, an increase of 9,550 persons. The population in older age groups is projected to increase

substantially during this period, with over 100% of the overall net population growth (9,750 persons)

projected to be aged 65 or over and 65% projected to be 75+. The large proportion of older people is

partly a result of projected falls in the size of some younger cohorts alongside the growth in the

number of older persons.

6.80 In Newcastle upon Tyne, the SHMA Update population projections identified that the population was

likely to increase over the period 2015 to 2030 from 292,280 persons to 322,960 persons over the 15-

year period, an increase of 30,680 persons. The population in older age groups is projected to increase

substantially during this period, with approaching half (47%) of the overall net population growth

(14,200 persons) projected to be aged 65 or over and 25% projected to be 75+.

6.81 This is particularly important when establishing the types of housing required and the need for housing

specifically for older people. Whilst most of these older people will already live in the area and many

will not move from their current homes; those that do move home are likely to be looking for suitable

housing.

6.82 The Housing Learning and Improvement Network (LIN) published “More Choice, Greater Voice: a

toolkit for producing a strategy for accommodation with care for older people”60 in February 2008; and

subsequently published the “Strategic Housing for Older People (SHOP)”61 resource pack in December

2011. Both the toolkit and the resource pack provide standardised rates for estimating the demand

for a range of specialist older person housing products, based on the population aged 75 or over. The

figures represent national rates and should be treated with caution for any local authority.

60 http://www.housinglin.org.uk/_library/Resources/Housing/Support_materials/Reports/MCGVdocument.pdf 61 http://www.housinglin.org.uk/_library/Resources/Housing/SHOP/SHOPResourcePack.pdf

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Figure 122: Benchmark Figures for Specialist Older Person Housing

Form of Provision More Choice, Greater Voice toolkit SHOP resource pack

Owned Rented TOTAL Owned Rented TOTAL

Demand per 1,000 persons aged 75+

Leasehold Schemes for the Elderly (LSE) 75 - 75 120 - 120

Conventional Sheltered Housing - 50 50 - 60 60

Sheltered ‘plus’ or ‘Enhanced’ Sheltered 10 10 20 10 10 20

Extra care 12.5 12.5 25 30 15 45

Dementia - 10 10 - 6 6

TOTAL 97.5 82.5 180 160 91 251

6.83 These rates provide a useful framework for understanding the potential demand for different forms of

older person housing, but neither publication provides any detail about the derivation of the figures.

6.84 The More Choice, Greater Voice toolkit recognises that the suggested framework simply:

“…represents an attempt to quantify matters with explicit numerical ratios and targets. It is

contentious, but deliberately so, in challenging those who must develop local strategies to

draw all the strands together in a way that quantifies their intentions.” (page 44)

6.85 Similarly, the SHOP resource pack acknowledges that the framework simply provides a baseline, which

extrapolates “…crude estimates of future demand from existing data” (page 36). There is no single

correct answer when estimating the need for older person housing, and it is therefore appropriate to

establish a local framework which takes account of local data.

6.86 PPG also identifies that “assessments should set out the level of need for residential institutions (Use

Class C2)” (ID 2a-021). The demographic projections have projected that the institutional population is

likely to increase by around 414 persons in Gateshead and 593persons in Newcastle upon Tyne over

the period 2015-30 (Figure 46). This increase in institutional population is a consequence of the CLG

approach to establishing the household population62, which assumes “that the share of the

institutional population stays at 2011 levels by age, sex and relationship status for the over 75s” on the

basis that “ageing population will lead to greater level of population aged over 75 in residential care

homes”. However, older people are living longer, healthier lives, and the Government’s policy toward

Health and Adult Social Care is underpinned by a principle of sustaining people at home for as long as

possible – so despite the ageing population, current policy means that the number of care homes and

nursing homes may actually decline, as people are supported to continue living in their own homes for

longer. The effects of this cannot currently be predicted.

6.87 Given this context, it does not necessarily follow that all of the increase in institutional population

should be provided as additional bedspaces in residential institutions in Use Class C2; some of the

specialist older person housing may be more appropriate for their needs. Nevertheless, whilst

specialist older person housing would generally be included within the overall OAN, if fewer older

people are expected to live in communal establishments than is currently projected, the housing

needs of any additional older people in the household population would need to be counted in

addition to the assessed OAN.

6.88 Based on the growth in population aged 75+ identified in the population projection, the table below

identifies the potential additional requirement for new specialist housing (using the Housing LIN Older

62 Household Projections 2012-based: Methodological Report, Department for Communities and Local Government, February 2015

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People Resource Pack 2012) for the period 2015-2030. As can be seen, the Housing LIN approach

shows a significant need for ownership schemes, mostly LSE schemes, in Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne.

Figure 123: Additional Modelled Demand for Older Person Housing 2015-30 (Source: Housing LIN Toolkit)

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

Population aged 75+

2015 17,950 19,780

2030 24,100 27,570

Change 20125 – 2030 6,150 7,800

Additional Modelled Demand for Older Person Housing

Traditional sheltered 310 390

Extra care Owned 80 100

Rented 80 100

Sheltered ‘plus’ or ‘Enhanced’ Sheltered

Owned 60 80

Rented 80 100

Dementia 60 80

Leasehold Schemes for the Elderly (LSE) 460 580

TOTAL 1,130 1,430

6.89 In Gateshead, the toolkit identifies future need for 1,130 specialist older person additional housing

units of various types over the period 2015-30; however 42% of this need (460 dwellings) is for LSE

housing63. In Newcastle upon Tyne, of the 1,430 additional specialist older person housing units of

various types, 580 are LSE housing.

6.90 Current supply indicates that there are presently around 2,619 specialist Older Person housing units in

Gateshead and 2,983 in Newcastle upon Tyne. Details are shown in Figure 124, where, broadly,

‘housing with support’ equates to traditional sheltered housing and ‘housing with care’ equates to

extra care. (NOTE: The EAC units per thousand population ratio is based on 75+ populations of 14,570

in Gateshead and 19,680 in Newcastle upon Tyne).

63 The EAC advise: ‘Leasehold Schemes for the Elderly (LSE) are run by a small number housing associations and involve you buying a proportion (e.g. 70%) of the equity of the property, the remaining portion being owned by the RSL’. http://www.firststopcareadvice.org.uk/jargon-leasehold-schemes-for-the-elderly.aspx

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Figure 124: Specialist Housing Provision for Older People (Source: EAC 201564

. Figures may not sum due to rounding)

Gateshead

Newcastle upon Tyne

Units

Units per thousand

population aged 75+

Units

Units per thousand

population aged 75+

Housing with support

Rent 2,201 2,453

Sale 174 336

Total 2,375 163.0 2,789 141.7

Housing with care

Rent 222 141

Sale 22 53

Total 244 16.7 194 9.9

TOTAL 2,619 179.7 2,983 151.6

6.91 While the Housing LIN model identifies future need, this is on the basis of existing types of provision

(sheltered, extra care etc). It is unclear, at the present time, if Older People will aspire to these types of

specialist housing in the future; indeed, demand for some types are already experiencing low demand,

and other, newer types of provision may appear to meet changing aspirations in the market. Further,

the policy aim of supporting people at home for longer could mean, for example, that floating support

services and assistive technologies to older people, in their own homes, could sustain people there

longer.

6.92 Housing LIN have an overall rate of specialist provision per 1000 population of 180. The combined rate

of current specialist provision for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne (based on the total EAC

population data: 34,250) would equate to 164 properties per 1000 persons aged over 75. Against the

2015 population, (37,730) current provision would equate to 148 properties per 1000 population.

6.93 Of course, it is important that the delivery of specific schemes for specialist older person housing are

considered in partnership with other agencies, in particular those responsible for older person support

needs. It will also be important to consider other factors and constraints in the market:

» Demographics: the changing health, longevity and aspirations of Older People mean people

will live increasingly healthy longer lives and their future housing needs may be different from

current needs;

» New supply: development viability of schemes, and the availability of revenue funding for

care and support services, need to be carefully considered before commissioning any new

scheme. It will also be important for the Council and its partners to determine the most

appropriate types of specialist older person housing to be provided in the area;

» Existing supply: while there is considerable existing specialist supply, this may be either

inappropriate for future households or may already be approaching the end of its life.

64 http://www.housingcare.org/downloads/eac%20stats%20on%20housing%20for%20older%20people%20March%202015.pdf The EAC ‘acknowledges both the rented and private sectors contain a wide range of housing types intended for older people. The social sector has traditionally distinguished these as Category 1, 2 etc., but the private sector tends to refer to them all simply as “retirement housing”. This report looks only at schemes that fall within the following definition: “a group of dwellings intended for older people and served by a resident or non-resident warden/scheme manager with specific responsibility for the group”. It is important to note that a considerable proportion of housing intended for older people falls outside this definition, and is therefore excluded. Extra care, assisted living, and other forms of 'housing with care' are included.

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Nevertheless, other forms of specialist older person housing may be more appropriate than

conventional sheltered housing to rent when considering future needs;

» Other agencies: any procurement of existing supply needs to be undertaken with other

agencies who also plan for the future needs of Older People, particularly local authority

Supporting People Teams and the Health Service; and

» National strategy and its implications for Older People: national strategy emphasises Older

People being able to remain in their own homes for as long as possible rather than specialist

provision, so future need may, again, be overstated.

Households with Specific Needs

Assessing the level of need for accessible and wheelchair housing 6.94 This section assesses the level of need for wheelchair and accessible housing, including dealing with

the accessibility and wheelchair housing standards. It accesses the data sources listed in the “Building

regulations: guide to available disability data” (CLG, March 2015)65.

6.95 Paragraph 50 of the NPPF identifies that local planning authorities should plan for households with

specific needs, and PPG states:

Households with specific needs

There is no one source of information about disabled people who require adaptations in the home,

either now or in the future.

The Census provides information on the number of people with long-term limiting illness and plan

makers can access information from the Department of Work and Pensions on the numbers of

Disability Living Allowance/Attendance Allowance benefit claimants. Whilst these data can provide

a good indication of the number of disabled people, not all of the people included within these

counts will require adaptations in the home.

Applications for Disabled Facilities Grant will provide an indication of levels of expressed need,

although this could underestimate total need. If necessary, plan makers can engage with partners

to better understand their housing requirements. Planning Practice Guidance (March 2015), ID 2a-021

6.96 Personal Independence Payments started to replace the Disability Living Allowance from April 2013,

and these are awarded to people aged under 65 years who incur extra costs due to disability (although

there is no upper age limit once awarded, providing that applicants continue to satisfy either the care

or mobility conditions). Attendance Allowance contributes to the cost of personal care for people who

are physically or mentally disabled and who are aged 65 or over. Nevertheless, PPG recognises that

neither of these sources provides information about the need for adapted homes as “not all of the

people included within these counts will require adaptations in the home”.

6.97 Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG) are normally provided by Councils and housing associations to adapt

properties for individuals with health and/or mobility needs who are owner occupiers, or renting from

65

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-regulations-guide-to-available-disability-data

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a private landlord, housing association or council. Grants cover a range of works, ranging from major

building works, major adaptations to the property and minor adaptations, such as:

» Structural works such as a downstairs bathroom or extension;

» Improving access to rooms and facilities, for example Providing a hoist system or through

floor lift, widening doors, installing ramps, and stair lifts;

» Providing a heating system suitable for needs;

» Adapting heating or lighting controls to make them easier to use;

» Stair rails and grab rails.

6.98 Figures from the English Housing Survey (Figure 135) demonstrate that, while the existing stock is

considerably larger than projected new build, adapting existing stock through DFGs is part of the

solution, but adapting existing stock alone cannot provide sufficient adapted properties to meet the

need.

6.99 Figure 125 Shows spending on DFGs in the two authorities for the previous five years. This spending

was in response to 1,631 applications and 1,565 completions in Gateshead and 1,932 applications in

Newcastle upon Tyne, with 1,116 completions in the previous three years in Newcastle upon Tyne.

The majority of applications for DFG which do not lead to the requested works being completed are

either abandoned due to the applicant moving or planning to move, or are unsuccessful as the

applicant does not qualify for financial assistance.

Figure 125: Gateshead and and Newcastle upon Tyne Spending on DFGs in owned and rented private, and housing association

properties properties (Source: Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Councils)

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Gateshead £1,563,851 £1,427,930 £1,286,789 £1,510,606 £1,222,728

2011-2012 2012-2013 2013-2014 2014-2015 2015-2016

Newcastle upon Tyne £1,496,987 £1,251,668 £1,569,920 £1,964,268 £1,623,635

6.100 Based on data from both authorities, the mean average cost per completion on housing associations,

owner occupied and private rented properties in Gateshead was £4,480. Based on completions in the

two years 2014-2015 and 2015-2016, the mean average per completion in Newcastle upon Tyne was

£4,485. Detailed figures from Newcastle upon Tyne city Council demonstrate the range of adaptations

funded by DFG, covering all parts of a property.

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Figure 126: Newcastle upon Tyne Spending on DFGs by type for owner occupied, private rented and registered providers

(Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City Council)

Gateshead

Completed Adaptations 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 Total

Level access shower 96 121 49 388

Curved track stair lift 44 34 29 174

Straight track stair lift 107 93 43 344

Heavy duty stairlift 3 5 2 10

Ramp (including semi-permanent

ramps) 34 23 19 108

Ceiling Track Hoist 19 26 9 72

Access alterations 29 25 8

Bathroom adaptation 14 11 6 60

Automated WC 13 5 3 30

Through floor lift / vertical lift 7 5 1 16

Kitchen adaptation 2 2 7

Garage conversion 1 2

Step Lift 3 1 6

Extension 3 2 0 8

Other 2 5 5 14

Total 377 358 174 1,239

Newcastle upon Tyne

Completed Adaptations 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 Total

Level access shower 199 135 91 425

Curved track stair lift 58 44 82 184

Straight track stair lift 70 42 70 182

Ramp 55 26 26 107

Ceiling Track Hoist 34 23 12 69

Access alterations 22 19 16 57

Bathroom adaptation 22 11 10 43

Clos-o-mat 9 5 4 18

Through floor lift 6 3 2 11

Kitchen adaptation 4 2 2 8

Garage conversion 2 3 1 6

Step Lift 3 0 0 3

Extension 2 1 0 3

Total 486 314 316 1,116

6.101 The adaptations were carried out across private and housing associations properties in approximately

the following proportions:

» 65% in owner-occupied properties

» 7% in private rented properties

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» 28% in properties rented from a registered provider

6.102 On top of the spend on DFGs, major adaptations expenditure on Gateshead Council-owned properties

is shown below. This spending funded 2,082 major adaptations.

Figure 127: Gateshead Spending on major adaptations in Council owned properties (Source: Gateshead Council)

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Gateshead £586,411 £1,133,551 £1,554,905 £1,352,089 £1,090,267

6.103 The mean average cost per major adaptation in Council owned properties in Gateshead was £2,746,

while in Newcastle upon Tyne the mean cost was £4,922.32 in 2016/17.

Current Planning Policy Context 6.104 As previously noted, the Government’s reform of Health and Adult Social Care is underpinned by a

principle of sustaining people at home for as long as possible. This was reflected in the recent changes

to building regulations relating to adaptations and wheelchair accessible homes that were published in

the Building Regulations 2010 Approved Document Part M: Access to and use of buildings (2015

edition incorporating 2016 amendments – for use in England)66. Three standards are covered:

» M4(1) Category 1: Visitable dwellings (Mandatory)

» M4(2) Category 2: Accessible and adapted dwellings (Optional, similar to the Lifetime

Homes standard)

» M4(3) Category 3: Wheelchair user dwellings (Optional, equivalent to the wheelchair

accessible standard)

6.105 Part M states that: “Where no condition is imposed, dwellings only need to meet requirements M4(1)”

(Paragraph 0.3).

6.106 M4(2) Category 2: Accessible and adapted dwellings states that reasonable provision should be made

for people to gain access to and use the facilities of the dwelling and that:

“The provision made must be sufficient to-

(a) meet the needs of occupants with differing needs, including some older or disabled

people, and;

(b) to allow adaptation of the dwelling to meet the changing needs of occupants over time.”

(Page 10)

6.107 M4(3) Category 3: Wheelchair user dwellings also states that reasonable provision should be made for

people to gain access to and use the facilities of the dwelling and that:

““The provision made must be sufficient to-

(a) allow simple adaptation of the dwelling to meet the needs of occupants who use

wheelchairs, or;

(b) to meet the needs of occupants who use wheelchairs.” (Page 23)

66

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6.108 Local authorities should identify the proportion of dwellings in new developments that should comply

with the requirements for Category 2 and Category 3 as part of the Local Plan, based on the likely

future need for housing for older and disabled people (including wheelchair user dwellings) and taking

account of the overall impact on viability. Planning Practice Guidance for Housing optional technical

standards states:

Based on their housing needs assessment and other available datasets it will be for local planning

authorities to set out how they intend to approach demonstrating the need for Requirement M4(2)

(accessible and adaptable dwellings), and / or M4(3) (wheelchair user dwellings), of the Building

Regulations.

To assist local planning authorities in appraising this data the Government has produced a

summary data sheet. This sets out in one place useful data and sources of further information which

planning authorities can draw from to inform their assessments. It will reduce the time needed for

undertaking the assessment and thereby avoid replicating some elements of the work.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2015), ID 56-007

Population and health demographics 6.109 The SHMA Update population projections identified that the population in Gateshead was likely to

increase over the period 2015 to 2030 from 203,100 persons to 212,650 persons over the 15-year

period, an increase of 9,550 persons. The population in older age groups is projected to increase

substantially during this period, with over 100% of the overall net population growth (9,750 persons)

projected to be aged 65 or over and 65% projected to be 75+. The large proportion of older people is

partly a result of projected falls in the size of some younger cohorts alongside the growth in the

number of older persons.

6.110 The indicators from the Public Health England (PHE) health profiles in Figure 128 show Gateshead to

be generally comparable to the North East overall, but with higher levels of deprivation and public

health problems than England as a whole. In particular, the under 75 mortality rate from

cardiovascular conditions and excess winter deaths are notably higher than for England and for the

North East, while the percentage of physically active adults is low. Life expectancy is around 1.7 years

lower than for England.

6.111 In Newcastle upon Tyne, the SHMA Update population projections identified that the population was

likely to increase over the period 2015 to 2030 from 292,280 persons to 322,960 persons over the 15-

year period, an increase of 30,680 persons. The population in older age groups is projected to increase

substantially during this period, with approaching half (47%) of the overall net population growth

(14,200 persons) projected to be aged 65 or over and 25% projected to be 75+.

6.112 The indicators from the PHE health profiles in Figure 128 show Newcastle upon Tyne to have higher

levels of deprivation and public health problems than England as a whole and, in general, the North

East region. In particular, the percentage of children in low income families, obese children, hip

fractures, smoking related deaths and under 75 mortality rate from cardiovascular conditions are

notably higher than for England and for the North East. Life expectancy is around 1.6 years lower than

for England.

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6.113 The Public Health England (PHE) health profiles for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne provide 30

public health indicators. Some key indicators demonstrate the health profile compared to England and

the North East region:

Figure 128: Public Health England health profiles indicators 2017 (Source: PHI)

Indicator Gateshead Newcastle

upon Tyne

North East England

Deprivation score (IMD 2015) 25.9 28.3 - 21.8

Children in low income families (under 16s) 22.60% 29.40% 24.90% 20.10%

Obese children (Year 6) 23.20% 24.8% 22.40% 19.80%

Percentage of physically active adults (2015) 46.3% 55.7% 52.9% 57.0%

Excess weight in adults (2013-15) 69.4% 63.2% 68.6% 64.8%

Hip fractures in people aged 65 and over per

100,000 population (2015/16) 666 734 679 589

Life expectancy at birth (Male) 77.7 77.8 77.9 79.5

Life expectancy at birth (Female) 81.4 81.5 81.6 83.1

Smoking related deaths per 100,000

population (2013-15) 385.9 394.2 369 283.5

Under 75 mortality rate: cardiovascular per

100,000 population (2013-15) 93.1 95.3 85.1 74.6

Excess winter deaths index – 3 years, all ages

(Aug 2012 - Jul 2015) 22.1 17.4 19.3 19.6

6.114 The population projections are particularly important when establishing the types of housing required

and the need for housing specifically for older people. Whilst most of these older people will already

live in the area and many will not move from their current homes; those that do move home are likely

to be looking for suitable housing.

6.115 While younger people are more likely to move, new housing needs to be built for households growing

older and therefore a proportion to be built to accessibility and wheelchair standards. Most newly

forming households will be younger people, some of which will move into new housing, but perhaps

the largest group moving to new housing will be families of working age. Family households’

representatives aged 50 in 2015, will reach retirement age by 2030. This is one reason why we can

expect that a proportion of newly built dwellings between 2015 and 2030 will need to be accessible,

with a smaller proportion needed to be to wheelchair standard.

6.116 There will be a large growth in older households. While most of the older households will not move,

there will be a large number of older households who need accessible housing or wheelchair housing

where they currently live, or to move to such housing because their current home is not viable to

adapt to their needs. This again leads to a need for a two-pronged approach; to deal with the existing

stock through DFGs, and to provide new general needs housing for older people to move to. Older

households moving to new, accessible or wheelchair housing will free up their previous housing.

6.117 The need for accessible and wheelchair housing is not constrained to older households. Each point

made here in relation to older households applies equally to any household of any age that

experiences disability or other reason why accessible or wheelchair housing becomes a necessity, such

as disability through progressive conditions, through accident, or through having a disabled child.

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6.118 A notable proportion of households on the Housing Needs Registers for the two authorities show have

a recognised need to move on welfare grounds or because of disability. Whilst Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne are partners in Tyne and Wear Homes they do not share the same policy; the

bands used are similar but cannot be compared directly.

6.119 As of March 2017 there were 6,724 households on the Tyne and Wear Housing register for Gateshead,

while the average number of households in 2016-17 registered as needing to move on welfare

grounds or because of disability in Gateshead was 706. The Gateshead figures include all households

assessed as having an Urgent or Substantial need.

6.120 As of April 2017, there were 6,434 households registered on the Tyne and Wear Housing register for

Newcastle upon Tyne, while 535 households through 2016-2017 were registered as needing to move

on welfare grounds or because of disability. The Newcastle upon Tyne figures are cases that have a

medical or welfare banding assessed as having a need under Bands A, B or C. Applicants who are

adequately housed would fall into Band D. For any disabled applicants falling under Band D, there

would be no verification of the disability.

Figure 129: On Housing Register with a recognised need to move on welfare grounds or disability (Source: Gateshead and

Newcastle upon Tyne City Councils)

Gateshead

(Monthly

average)

Newcastle

upon Tyne

2016-2017 706 535

2015-2016 855 400

2014-2015 1,255 289

2013-2014 1,506 337

2012-2013 1,424 268

6.121 The largest decrease in numbers in Gateshead over time has been in the Urgent Need (Single Award)

and Substantial (Single Award) categories.

6.122 The Continuous Recording of Lettings and Sales in Social Housing (CORE) database 2014-2015 shows

that 5% of lettings to Social Rented general needs housing in Gateshead are to a household assigned

as having a reasonable preference on medical or welfare grounds and 4.9% in Newcastle. The

proportions of allocations to households assigned as having a reasonable preference on medical or

welfare grounds are lower in Affordable Rented general needs properties; 1.6% in Gateshead and

2.9% in Newcastle.

6.123 Lettings to a household assigned as having a reasonable preference on medical or welfare grounds, to

wheelchair standard properties in Social Rented general needs housing, stood at 7.7% of lettings in

Gateshead and 4.3% in Newcastle. As might be expected, the proportions of lettings to a household

assigned as having a reasonable preference on medical or welfare grounds to Social Rented

wheelchair standard properties is higher, at 15.4% of all Social Rented wheelchair standard housing in

Gateshead and 33.7% in Newcastle.

6.124 The picture for Affordable Rented properties is less clear, though there is evidence of demand such as

the 11.6% of Affordable Rented general needs properties in Newcastle upon Tyne that were let to

households requiring wheelchair standard properties. The proportions of lets to wheelchair standard

housing will reflect the level of supply of wheelchair standard properties as well as the demand;

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demand is likely to increase as more such properties become available, at least initially. It is not

possible to project precisely where that increase in demand would level off if the number of

wheelchair standard properties continually increased, but it is possible to state that there is evidence

of a demand.

6.125 In summary, it can be seen that there is a high demand for Social Rented general needs and supported

housing from households assigned as having a reasonable preference on medical or welfare grounds

and evidence of demand for wheelchair standard properties in general needs as well as in supported

housing. It is likely that households have to compromise by choosing either the location or the

accessibility/adaptability of a home. Increasing the stock of accessible and adaptable properties would

allow more households who need such housing to avoid having to compromise.

Figure 130: Total Number of lettings recorded on CORE for 2014-2015 (Source: CORE)

Gateshead Newcastle

upon Tyne

Social Rented General Needs 1,966 2,996

Social Rented Supported Housing 319 944

Affordable Rented General Needs 254 138

Affordable Rented Supported Housing (Care home providing

personal care Registered under the Care Standards Act 2000)

10 <3 responses

Total 2,549 4,078+

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Figure 131: Number of lettings recorded on CORE for 2014-2015 (Source: CORE)

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

Lettings to households with a reasonable preference on

medical welfare Lettings

Lettings

Social Rented General Needs 98 5.0% 148 4.9%

Social Rented Supported Housing 20 6.3% 36 3.8%

Affordable Rented General Needs 4 1.6% 4 2.9%

Affordable Rented Supported Housing (Care home providing

personal care Registered under the Care Standards Act 2000)

2 20.0% <3 responses Not available

Total 124 4.9% 188+ 4.6%

Lettings to wheelchair standard properties Lettings

Percent of all

lettings in

category

Lettings

Percent of all

lettings in

category

Social Rented General Needs 152 7.7% 128 4.3%

Social Rented Supported Housing 49 15.4% 318 33.7%

Affordable Rented General Needs 4 1.6% 16 11.6%

Affordable Rented Supported Housing (Care home providing

personal care Registered under the Care Standards Act 2000)

6 60% <3 responses Not Available

Total 211 8.3% 462+ 11.3%

Lettings to mobility standard properties (fitted with

equipment and adaptations) Lettings

Percent of all

lettings in

category

Lettings

Percent of all

lettings in

category

Social Rented General Needs Not available Not available Not available Not available

Social Rented Supported Housing 129 40.4% 241 25.5%

Affordable Rented General Needs Not available Not available Not available Not available

Affordable Rented Supported Housing (Care home providing

personal care Registered under the Care Standards Act 2000)

4 40% <3 responses Not Available

Total 133 40.4% 241+ 25.5%

6.126 The Census 2011 contains information on residents with Long Term Limiting Illness (LTLI). Figure 132 shows the proportion of residents in the main housing tenures who identified as having LTLI with day-to-day activities limited a lot and demonstrates a need for M4(2) accessible and possibly M4(3) wheelchair housing. Key points shown by the figures are.

6.127 The proportions of residents with day-to-day activities limited a lot are similar for each age and tenure group for the two authorities. Here they are compared to England and the North East:

» In Gateshead and Newcastle, based on the Census LTLI figures:

o 31% of all people aged 65 or over in each of the two authorities has an LTLI which limits their

day-to-day activities a lot.

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o This includes around a quarter of residents of owner occupied properties aged 65 or over

(25% and 24% respectively), 44% of social rented tenants and 37% of PRS tenants67.

» Across the North East: 30% of all people aged 65 or over have a LTLI which limits their day-to-day

activities a lot, including 25% of residents of owner occupied properties, 45% of social rented

tenants and 36% of PRS tenants.

» In England: 25% of all people aged 65 or over have a LTLI which limits their day-to-day activities a

lot, including 21% of residents of owner occupied properties, 41% of social rented tenants and 32%

of PRS tenants.

6.128 The figures for people aged 65 or over in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne are similar to the North East as a whole, but differ from England. Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne have higher proportions overall of people aged 65 or over with a LTLI which limits their day-to-day activities a lot (31% compared to 25% for England), which is reflected in higher proportions for each tenure group: 25% of occupants of owner occupied properties compared to 21% for England; 44% of social rented tenants compared to 41% for England, and; 37% of PRS tenants compared to 32% for England.

6.129 In Gateshead and Newcastle, high proportions of residents who have LTLI with day-to-day activities limited a lot are also apparent in working age groups; 15% of those aged 50 to 64. This includes 9% (Gateshead) and 8% (Newcastle) in owner occupied properties, 32% in social rented properties, and 20% (Gateshead) and 21% (Newcastle) in PRS properties. Of those aged 16 to 49, the overall figures are 5% (Gateshead) and 4% (Newcastle), with 12% (Gateshead) and 11% (Newcastle) among social rented tenants.

6.130 The figures across the North East as a whole are similar to Gateshead and Newcastle: 15% of all those aged 50 to 64 have a LTLI which limits their day-to-day activities a lot, including 33% of social rented tenants; 5% of those aged 16 to 49, including 11% of social rented tenants.

6.131 Some of the rates in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne are higher than for England as a whole, where: 10% overall of those aged 50 to 64 have LTLI with day-to-day activities limited a lot, including 29% of social rented tenants; 4% of those aged 16 to 49, with 10% among social rented tenants.

67

Note: The bases for these proportions are: Gateshead 197,726 residents; Newcastle upon Tyne 271,212 residents. These bases reflect the number of residents counted within the LTLI question and differ from the Census overall populations. The LTLI-question bases are the appropriate denominators in this case, but slightly different proportions would be shown if the total recorded Census populations were used.

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Figure 132: Gateshead and and Newcastle upon Tyne; resident population with LTLI ‘Day-to-day activities limited a lot’ by tenure

(Source: Census 2011)

All categories: Tenure

Owned (with/without

mortgage, including

shared ownership)

Rented: Social rented

Rented: Private

rented or living rent

free

Gateshead

All categories: Age 11% 8% 20% 7%

Age 0 to 15 2% 1% 3% 1%

Age 16 to 49 5% 3% 12% 4%

Age 50 to 64 15% 9% 32% 20%

Age 65 and over 31% 25% 44% 37%

Newcastle upon Tyne

All categories: Age 9% 7% 18% 4%

Age 0 to 15 2% 1% 3% 2%

Age 16 to 49 4% 2% 11% 2%

Age 50 to 64 15% 8% 32% 21%

Age 65 and over 31% 24% 44% 37%

6.132 The evidence base for the Newcastle upon Tyne City Council “Older People’s Housing Delivery Plan

2013-2018”68 projects the occurrence of LTLI forward using POPPI data, stating that the number of

people aged 65 and predicted to have a limiting long-term illness will increase from around 21,560 in

2012, to 23,050 in 2016 and to 24,385 by 2020, an overall increase of 2,830 people aged 65 or over.

Source: POPPI (using ONS 2011-based interim sub-national population projections).

6.133 It is useful here to summarise the contextual evidence of the need for Category 2 accessible and

adapted properties in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne:

» Spending of between £1.2 and £1.95 million a year in each of the two authorities on DFGs;

» A total of around 2,350 adaptations completed across the two authorities through DFGs in

the previous three years;

» Since 2012, 2,082 major adaptations to Gateshead Council-owned. The mean cost of

major adaptations being £2,750 in Gateshead and £4,922 in Newcastle upon Tyne;

» In 2014/15, 124 lettings, (4.9% of all lettings) recorded on CORE in Gateshead and 188

lettings (4.6% of all lettings) in Newcastle upon Tyne are to households with a reasonable

preference on medical or welfare grounds;

» Census 2011 figures showing that 11% of all residents across tenures in Gateshead have a

LTLI which limits their day to day activities ‘a lot’, 9% in Newcastle upon Tyne, rising to

15% of those aged 50 to 64 and 31% aged over 65 in both authorities.

6.134 Further contextual evidence of the cost benefits of providing accessible and adapted housing is given

in Cost benefits of providing accessible and adaptable housing below.

6.135 Considering the increase in households, in Gateshead 90% (6,800 out of 7,400 households) are likely to

have household representatives aged 65 or over, while in Newcastle upon Tyne 60% (10,200 out of

68 https://www.newcastle.gov.uk/housing/housing-policy-plans-and-performance/older-peoples-delivery-plan

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16,100 households) are likely to have household representatives aged 65 or over. Given this context,

the evidence supports the need for at least 90% of all dwellings in Gateshead and 60% of all

dwellings in Newcastle upon Tyne to meet Category 2 requirements, providing that this does not

compromise viability.

Wheelchair accessible homes 6.136 The CLG guide to available disability data69 (referenced by PPG above) shows that currently around 1-

in-30 households in England (3.3%) have at least one wheelchair user, although the rate is notably

higher for households living in affordable housing (7.1%). The rates are also higher for older

households, and given that the number of older person households is likely to increase over the period

to 2030, the proportion of households needing wheelchair user housing in future is also likely to be

higher. Figure 133 identifies the proportion of households with a wheelchair user currently living in

market housing and affordable housing by age of household representative.

Figure 133: Percentage of households with a wheelchair user by type of housing and age of household representative

(Source: English Housing Survey 2013-14)

Housing Type Age of Household Representative

15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75-84 85+

Housing type

Market housing < 0.1% 0.4% 1.0% 1.6% 3.0% 4.0% 6.1% 9.3%

Affordable housing 0.3% 2.0% 2.9% 6.0% 6.0% 10.3% 12.7% 19.9%

6.137 Figure 134 identifies the net change in the number of households with a wheelchair user in Gateshead

and Newcastle, over the 15-year Plan period 2015-30. It is evident that the number of households

likely to need wheelchair adapted housing in Gateshead is likely to increase by 540 over the period,

equivalent to around 7.3% of the overall OAN. In Newcastle upon Tyne, the number of households

likely to need wheelchair adapted housing is likely to increase 911 over the period, equivalent to

around 5.6% of the overall OAN.

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Figure 134: Households needing Wheelchair Adapted Housing (Source: ORS Housing Model. Note: Figures may not sum due to

arithmetic rounding)

Modelled Need for Wheelchair Adapted

Housing

Households aged under 75 Households aged 75+ Overall change 2015-30

% of OAN 2015 2030

Net change 2015-30

2015 2030 Net

change 2015-30

GATESHEAD

Housing type

Market housing 1,002 1,085 83 599 815 216 299 6.3%

Affordable housing 1,261 1,323 63 678 857 179 241 9.3%

All households 2,262 2,408 145 1,277 1,671 394 540 7.3%

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

Housing type

Market housing 1,192 1,342 150 671 930 258 408 3.6%

Affordable housing 1,758 1,974 215 782 1070 287 503 10.6%

All households 2,951 3,315 365 1,454 2,000 546 911 5.6%

6.138 In Gateshead this comprises 299 households in market housing (6.3% of the market housing OAN) and

241 households in affordable housing (9.3% of the affordable housing OAN). The evidence therefore

supports the need for a proportion of both market and affordable housing to be wheelchair accessible,

and the Council should plan for a minimum of 6% of all market housing and 10% of affordable

housing to meet Category 3 requirements.

6.139 It is evident that the majority of the identified growth in Gateshead (394 households, equivalent to

73%) are households aged 75 or over. It is likely that many of these households would also be

identified as needing specialist housing for older persons. The earlier analysis identified a need for up

to 1,130 specialist older person housing units for households aged 75 or over, whilst the above

analysis identifies a need for a total of around 1,671 wheelchair adapted dwellings for households in

the same age group.

6.140 In Newcastle upon Tyne the change in the number of households with a wheelchair user comprises

408 households in market housing (3.6% of the market housing OAN) and 503 households in

affordable housing (10.6% of the affordable housing OAN). The evidence therefore supports the need

for a proportion of both market and affordable housing to be wheelchair accessible, and the Council

should plan for a minimum of 4% of all market housing and 11% of affordable housing to meet

Category 3 requirements.

6.141 It is evident that the majority of the identified growth in Newcastle upon Tyne (258 households,

equivalent to 63%) are households aged 75 or over. It is likely that many of these households would

also be identified as needing specialist housing for older persons. The earlier analysis identified a need

for up to 1,430 specialist older person housing units for households aged 75 or over, whilst the above

analysis identifies a need for a total of around 2,000 wheelchair adapted dwellings for households in

the same age group.

6.142 Whilst not all households aged 75 or over needing wheelchair adapted housing will live in specialist

older person housing, at any point in time it is likely that around two-fifths of households aged 75 or

over living in specialist housing will need wheelchair adapted homes. However, it is important to

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recognise that as individual household circumstances change, it is likely that some households will

start using a wheelchair whilst living in specialist housing if their health deteriorates. On this basis, a

higher proportion of specialist older person housing units will need to be wheelchair adapted. The

evidence supports the need for a target for all specialist housing for older people to meet Category 3

requirements.

6.143 When developing appropriate policies, it is important to note that Planning Practice Guidance for

Housing optional technical standards states:

Local Plan policies for wheelchair accessible homes should be applied only to those dwellings where

the local authority is responsible for allocating or nominating a person to live in that dwelling.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2015), ID 56-009

6.144 On this basis, it is appropriate for the local authority to set a target requiring the provision of

wheelchair accessible housing that meets Category 3 (b - to meet the needs of occupants who use

wheelchairs) requirements in relation to affordable housing. Furthermore, as there is clearly evidence

to support the need to provide market housing that is wheelchair accessible, it would be appropriate

for the local authority to set a target requiring that a proportion of market housing is readily adaptable

to wheelchair accessible housing that meets Category 3 (a - allow simple adaptation of the dwelling to

meet the needs of occupants who use wheelchairs) requirements.

Meeting the need for M4(2) accessible and M4(3) wheelchair user housing 6.145 The two authorities follow different approaches to providing wheelchair user housing, which it is

important to note before summarising the evidence from this assessment.

6.146 Gateshead has a policy aim to have M4(3)(a) adaptable housing in market housing developments. In

affordable housing, the aim is to have M4(3)(b) accessible housing where a nomination is identified,

defaulting to M4(3)(a) adaptable housing where no nomination is identified.

6.147 In Newcastle upon Tyne, all affordable housing is built to be adaptable. Once the needs of a resident

are clarified, the property is adapted post build. In this way, affordable housing allocations help to

ensure that the needs of wheelchair residents are met within M4(3) standard, usually through a

bespoke adaptation at the point of allocation.

6.148 Our assessment of need is that the evidence supports a need for:

» at least 90% of all dwellings in Gateshead to meet M4(2) - Category 2 accessible housing standard

» at least 60% of all dwellings in Newcastle upon Tyne to meet M4(2) - Category 2 accessible and

adaptable housing standard.

» A minimum of 6% of all market housing to meet M4(3)(a - allow simple adaptation of the dwelling

to meet the needs of occupants who use wheelchairs) wheelchair requirements in Gateshead;

» 10% of affordable housing to meet M4(3)(b - to meet the needs of occupants who use wheelchairs)

wheelchair requirements in Gateshead.

» A minimum of 4% of all market housing to meet M4(3)(a - allow simple adaptation of the dwelling

to meet the needs of occupants who use wheelchairs) in Newcastle upon Tyne;

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» 11% of affordable housing to meet M4(3) (b - to meet the needs of occupants who use wheelchairs)

wheelchair requirements in Newcastle upon Tyne.

6.149 All providing that this does not compromise viability.

6.150 It is important to understand what these percentages mean and how they might be delivered. It is not

viable to proportion them further between existing stock and new build dwellings because of

imperfect data. Notably, it is not known with any accuracy what proportion of existing stock meets

either standard, particularly the M4(2) accessible standard. Nor are there any robust figures on the

proportion of existing stock that it would be possible and financially viable to adapt to either standard.

Evidence from the English Housing Survey (EHS) suggests that large proportions of existing stock may

be unsuitable for adaptation.

6.151 The EHS “Adaptations and Accessibility Report, 2014-15” (CLG, July 2016) and annex figures70

demonstrate the state of existing stock in England and viability of that stock reaching the lowest

accessibility standard; M4(1) – Visitable. Annex Figure 2.3 is reproduced below.

Figure 135: Level of work required to create full visitability (Source: EHS 2014-15 Annex Figure 2.3)

70

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6.152 It is noticeable that the proportion of homes which are not feasible to make fully visitable fluctuates

over time. Nationally, 55% of pre-1919 homes cannot feasibly be made fully Visitable. That

proportion fell to 22% of homes built between 1919 and 1944, to 17%-18% between 1945 and 1980,

then increased again so that 23% of homes built between 1981 and 1990, and almost 25% built since

1990 cannot feasibly be made fully visitable.

6.153 In total, 27.7% of the national housing stock cannot feasibly be made fully Visitable. A further 15.3%

could only be made fully Visitable with major work, including 18% of homes built between 1981 and

1990, and almost 17% of homes built since 1990.

6.154 The stock profile of dwellings in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne are shown below.

6.155 In Gateshead in 2017, just over a quarter of privately owned dwellings were pre-1919, and just over a

fifth post-1980. A small majority of privately owned dwellings (52%) were built between 1919 and

1980, the period when the EHS shows that the majority of homes could be made visitable, usually with

‘moderate works’. As might be expected from national policy through the last century, 96% of Council

owned stock was built between 1919 and 1980.

6.156 In Newcastle upon Tyne, in 2010, just under a quarter of dwellings were pre-1919 and 13% post-1980,

meaning that 63% were built between 1919 and 1980, the period when the EHS shows that the

majority of homes could be made visitable, usually with ‘moderate works’. Within the City, a total of

70% were built between 1919 and 1980, including 96% of Your Homes Newcastle upon Tyne (YHN)

properties and 64% of private properties.

6.157 It is likely that a large proportion of the stock of existing properties in both Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne could be made Visitable.

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Figure 136: Gateshead; Stock age profile, excluding private Registered Social Housing providers (Source: Gateshead Council, CLG)

Private

Dwelling age Gateshead

(2007 Stock Condition

Survey)

England 2007

(2007 Stock Condition

Survey)

Gateshead 2017 England 2015

(English Housing

Survey 2015-16)71

Pre-1919 27.8% 24.4% 26.1% 23.7%

1919-1944 18.5% 19.7% 17.3% 17.3%

1945-1964 22.4% 17.7% 21.1% 17.1%

1965-1980 14.8% 20.5% 13.9% 18.5%

Post-1980 16.4% 17.6% 21.6% 23.4%

All ages 100.0% 100.0% 100% 100%

Council stock

Dwelling age Number 2017 Percent 2017

Pre-1919 7 0.04%

1919-1944 5463 28%

1945-1964 8045 41%

1965-1980 5187 27%

Post-1980 703 4%

Total 19,405 100%

Figure 137: Newcastle upon Tyne; Stock age profile, private, non-social stock (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City Council, CLG)

Private

Dwelling age Newcastle

(2010 Stock Condition

Survey)

England 2007

(2010 Stock Condition

Survey)

Pre-1919 23.2% 24.6%

1919-1944 28.4% 17.0%

1945-1964 16.6% 16.9%

1965-1980 18.3% 20.1%

1981-1990 4.9% 8.9%

Post-1990 8.6% 12.5%

All ages 100.0% 100.0%

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Figure 138: Newcastle upon Tyne City; Stock age profile, excluding private Registered Social Housing providers (Source:

Newcastle upon Tyne Council, CLG)

City

Dwelling age Newcastle

Building Use Class

Order

YHN

Building Use Class

Order

Non YHN Properties

Building Use Class

Order

Pre-1919 21.97% 4.26% 26.83%

1919-1944 26.76% 30.43% 25.75%

1945-1964 21.68% 43.04% 15.83%

1965-1980 22.01% 22.23% 21.95%

Post-1980 7.58% 0.03% 9.65%

All ages 100.0%

Dwelling age Newcastle

Building Use Class

Order

YHN

Building Use Class

Order

Non YHN Properties

Building Use Class

Order

Pre-1919 25,230 1,053 24,177

1919-1944 30,728 7,523 23,205

1945-1964 24,903 10,641 14,262

1965-1980 25,278 5,496 19,782

Post-1980 8,702 8 8,694

Unclassified 10,459 496 9,963

All ages 125,300 25,217 100,083

6.158 The age profile of housing stock in both Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne has changed over recent

years following a programme of demolition and replacement. The Compliance Statement for the Core

Strategy; “Planning for the future: Core strategy and Urban Core Plan for Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne Compliance statement72” (February 2014) sets out some key elements and effects of the

demolition programmes in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne. Policy CS9 Existing Communities

states:

“Existing communities will be sustainable places of quality and choice. This will be achieved

by:

1. Maintaining a range of housing types and sizes throughout the plan area,

2. Maintaining and improving facilities, services and the local environment,

3. Bringing empty properties back into use, demolition of housing which is no

longer viable or in demand, supporting programmes of improvement and renewal

and the replacement of housing,

4. Preventing the loss of family homes through sub‐division, change of use or

redevelopment,

And

5. Preventing an over concentration of shared accommodation.”

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6.159 The initial period in Newcastle upon Tyne occurred between 2010/11 and 2012/13, with a larger

number of demolitions than completions leading to a net loss of stock at the peak in 2012/13. Since

2013/14 the number of demolitions in Newcastle upon Tyne has fallen from being from around 200 to

600 properties a year to a level measured in tens of properties a year and this situation is anticipated

to continue at a constant lower level until 2029/30. (Figure 31 of the Compliance Statement.)

6.160 The demolitions programme in Gateshead involves a larger number of properties and the initial

intense period ran from 2010/11 to 2015/16, with net losses of stock due to greater numbers of

demolitions than completions in 2013/14 and 2014/15. By 2015/16 there was a considerable net gain.

Since 2016/17 the number of demolitions has fallen from being around 150 to 750 properties a year to

a level measured in tens of properties a year and this situation is anticipated to continue at a constant

lower level until 2029/30. (Figure 32 of the Compliance Statement.)

6.161 The demolition and rebuild programme offers an opportunity to remodel some of the stock to provide

accessible and adapted homes.

6.162 From this assessment of the lower M4(1) visitable standard, it is clear that:

» a large proportion of the existing dwelling stock could not be adapted to reach M4(2) or

M4(3) standard;

» dwellings built since 1981 are less likely to be viable to adapt than those built between

1919 and 1980.

6.163 This evidence leads to the conclusion that, while the existing stock is considerably larger than

projected new build, adapting existing stock through DFGs is part of the solution, but adapting

existing stock alone cannot provide sufficient adapted properties to meet the need.

6.164 On top of the physical limitations of the existing stock, there are other factors which affect the delivery

of M4(2) - accessible housing in existing dwellings:

» While younger people are more likely to move, new housing needs to be built for households

growing older and therefore a proportion to be built to accessibility and wheelchair standards.

» There will be a large number of older households who need accessible housing or wheelchair user

housing where they currently live, or to move to such housing because their current home is not

viable to adapt to their needs.

» The need for accessible and wheelchair user housing is not constrained to older households.

6.165 In conclusion, M4(2) – Category 2 accessible and M4(3) – Category 3 wheelchair user housing needs to

be delivered through a programme of new housing built to the standard alongside adaptations,

currently predominantly through DFGs. In aiming for the proportions of M4(2) Category 2 and M4(3)

Category 3 housing set out at the beginning of this section, it would be appropriate to apply those

percentages to all new developments, subject to viability. The demolition and rebuild programme

may offer some opportunity to provide accessible and adapted housing. This is because adapting the

existing housing stock alone is unlikely to provide sufficient future accessible and wheelchair user

housing.

6.166 Regarding M4(3) - wheelchair user housing, a final factor which must be taken into account is our

assessment that all specialist housing for older people should be to Category 2 wheelchair standard.

Providing this would lead to a lower proportion of wheelchair user housing required in the general

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needs stock. However, the situation requires monitoring because of the number of younger

wheelchair users; Figure 134 shows a larger number of households who require wheelchair user

housing aged below 75 than households of age 75 and above in 2015 and projected to 2030.

Older people – local context

Gateshead 6.167 Gateshead housing Strategy 2013-1873 is structured around THREE linked objectives:

» Support – to help residents access and sustain a home which promotes their wellbeing. Preventing

Homelessness is a key element of this objective.

» Standards – to improve the quality, condition and management of housing so that all residents

benefit from safe, healthy and well-managed homes.

» Supply – to ensure use of existing stock and supply of new housing best meets current and future

needs and aspirations.

6.168 The housing strategy Action Plan includes several aims related to improving accessible and wheelchair

housing:

6.169 Under the support objective, Gateshead Council aim to:

» Identify clear commissioning priorities for independent living

» Develop a framework for Independent Supported Living service providers

» Carry out market appraisal of residential care homes sector

» Develop forward plan of new specialist housing provision to reduce long-term care and support

costs (with the outcome: New accommodation which supports people to live independently)

6.170 Under the standards objective, Gateshead Council aim to:

» Deliver the falls prevention initiative (with the outcome: Reduced hospital admissions due to falls)

6.171 Under the supply objective, Gateshead Council aim to:

» Develop a register of existing specialist and adapted accommodation in the borough (with the

outcome: Better understanding of local provision)

» Develop a specialist housing design guide to ensure we build the right homes for people with

specialist needs (with the outcome: New homes built meet the specific needs of disabled people)

6.172 Gateshead older people’s housing survey February 2017 was posted out to all members of the

Gateshead Older People’s Assembly and received 170 responses from households. The survey aimed

to help the Council gain a greater understanding of the housing issues affecting local communities and

inform future housing plans. Specifically, Gateshead aim to keep people living in standard housing

wherever possible in preference to residential of care homes; the survey was intended to help identify

what is needed to facilitate that.

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6.173 Some key results are directly relevant to the issues of accessible or adaptable housing and wheelchair

housing:

» More than four fifths (82%) of existing older households had no plans to move from their current

homes, with 23% of those having already moved to a home which they considered suitable for them

as they get older. Most of these were in general needs housing.

» Irrespective of whether they currently plan to move, just over half of households (52%) said it was

likely that they would be prepared to move at some point to maintain independence. There was

considerable interest in housing designed with older people in mind. Half of households (50%) said

they would be likely to choose to live in housing designed for older people, such as sheltered

housing or retirement housing, to maintain their independence. However, around a quarter (26%)

felt they would be unlikely to choose to live in specialist housing.

» If their health deteriorated and they needed care and support, 36% of households would be most

likely to consider moving to supported accommodation for older people with care on site, but 34%

would be most likely to consider professional care provided in their home and 27% would be most

likely to consider care or support provided at home by family or friends.

» There is a clear preference for bungalows, with almost four fifths (77%) of responding older

households saying that if they were to move again, they would prefer to live in a bungalow,

compared to 13% for an apartment and 10% for a house.

» Key drivers for moving focus on health, the quality of property being offered and its location: a

household member’s health deteriorating; property design and size; proximity to amenities, family

or friends; tenure and costs.

» Maintaining independence is a key issue for those planning to move. Yet other studies have shown

that a fall or sudden health problem is the main reason for unplanned moves (especially to

residential care).

6.174 Important conclusions from the survey relating to accessible or adaptable housing and wheelchair

housing are:

» The survey evidence shows that there are many older person households who will be looking to

move to suitable homes within the general housing stock.

» Assistance to help people plan ahead, and explore potential housing options in advance, may

smooth transitions

» Providing homes which allow for support in the home could be more attractive to older people

considering a move.

» Adaptations remain as necessary as ever. Just over a fifth (22%) of households occupy homes which

are not currently suitable but which could be adapted.

6.175 In summary, the evidence of need for accessible and wheelchair housing supports the aims and

objectives of the Gateshead Housing Strategy 2013-18. The Gateshead Older Persons Housing Survey

2017 provides direct local evidence which supports the need for more accessible or adaptable, and

wheelchair properties.

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Newcastle upon Tyne 6.176 The Newcastle upon Tyne City Council “Older People’s Housing Delivery Plan 2013-2018”74 states that:

“Newcastle’s population is ageing and currently there are insufficient accommodation

options to meet the growth and diversity in this section of the housing market. The most

notable feature of the population projections is the number of people aged 85+ and with this

a likely increase in the number of people requiring care and support services. Newcastle

upon Tyne experiences higher numbers of people suffering from dementia when compared

to the national average and this is increasing with numbers aged over 65 expected to rise

from 3,200 to 4,400 by 2030. These trends will require a change in how we deliver services

to focus more on prevention and early intervention.” (Paragraph 2.5)

6.177 In response to this challenge, Newcastle upon Tyne City Council intends to:

“[provide] a broader choice of housing options, including housing based models of care such

as assisted living/ extra care, and preventative and early intervention services supported by

improved information and advice.” (Paragraph 2.6)

6.178 To achieve this, the Older People’s Delivery Plan has the aims of:

» helping older people to live independently for as long as possible in their own homes;

» increasing the number of units and diversity of specialist housing;

» making sure older people have the advice and information they need.

6.179 The provision of accessible and wheelchair housing is an important part of meeting these aims.

6.180 The views and expectations of older people in Newcastle upon Tyne were researched in the “Older

People’s Supported and Specialist Housing Impact Assessment” (PFA, October 2011) which used a

large scale household survey of older people living in the city, surveys of sheltered housing stock and

residents, analysis of data on people leaving short term supported and emergency housing, audit of

the needs of older people in short stay supported accommodation in the city, consultation with older

people across the 3 geographical sub areas of the city (E, W and N) and interviews with a range of

stakeholders.

6.181 The findings and recommendations were presented under five themes:

» Changing the culture

» Older people in the housing market – reshaping the housing stock for older people

» Information, advice and access

» Developing preventative services and capacity

» Lifetime neighbourhood communities

6.182 The report also includes an impact assessment of commissioning for adult social services.

6.183 Some key results are directly relevant to the issues of accessible or adaptable housing and wheelchair

housing:

74 https://www.newcastle.gov.uk/housing/housing-policy-plans-and-performance/older-peoples-delivery-plan

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» Around 4,000 residents in older person households (12.1% of households) said that they

used a wheelchair, though 77.5% of wheelchairs are only used outdoors with 22.5% used

both indoors and outdoors.

» While 27.8% live in dwellings with the appropriate number of bedrooms for the

household size and characteristics, 71.1% are under occupying. On the basis that an older

person household is under-occupying if it has two or more spare bedrooms, there are

around 10,148 such households. Most of these households are owner occupiers (78.2%).

» Around three quarters of existing older person households (72.8%) had no plans to move

from their current homes, with around 3000 (8.8%) of older person households planning

to move in the next 5 years or around.

» Reasons to move varied between tenures. Owner occupiers stated the need for a smaller

property (59.3%) and housing suitable for an older/disabled person (31.6%). Of private

renters, 46.1% needed housing suitable for an older/disabled person, 35.2% wanted to

move close to family/friends for social reasons. Of social renters, nearly half need

housing suitable for an older/disabled person (46.2%), 44.4% wanted a larger property or

one that is better in some way and 39.2% wanted to move closer to family/friends to

give/receive support. Smaller gardens were also a predominant reason to move for owner

occupiers and private renters.

» Irrespective of whether they currently plan to move, just over half of households (52%)

said it was likely that they would be prepared to move at some point to maintain

independence. There was considerable interest in housing designed with older people in

mind. Half of households (50%) said they would be likely to choose to live in housing

designed for older people, such as sheltered housing or retirement housing, to maintain

their independence. However, around a quarter (26%) felt they would be unlikely to

choose to live in specialist housing.

» Key drivers for moving and choice of home focus on health, the quality of property being

offered and its location; property design and size; proximity to amenities, family or

friends; tenure and costs, and being in a flat area.

6.184 Of the 28 recommendations, the following are directly relevant to the issues of older persons housing:

» Develop Extra Care Schemes for sale and rent.

» Change of use of sheltered housing to Extra Care.

» Enable private developers and RSL’s to build Retirement Homes for sale (flats and

bungalows with or without access to care and support services).

» Demolish or change the use of low demand sheltered schemes.

» Use the evaluation of the pilot Under-Occupation Scheme to develop an under-

occupation scheme. (CLG has made funding available to Council’s to develop schemes to

encourage older people under occupying properties to down size. Your Homes Newcastle

had piloted a project aimed at its older residents and the findings from this should be

used to inform a more generic scheme.)

» Methods to deal with homelessness among older people, including among others:

identifying preferred options for long term residents of short term housing; support to

address the barriers to access ordinary housing; help to access sheltered housing and to

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develop better pathways into sheltered housing; access to specialist or adapted care

provision which can accommodate clients with a history of homelessness and/or chronic

alcohol dependence, and; exploring the needs of older people currently in social or

private rented homes at risk of losing their homes.

» Look at a future model for delivering DFGs that makes use of the independent sector for

delivery.

» Model reductions in the use of residential care in favour of housing based models (extra

care).

Cost benefits of providing accessible and adaptable housing 6.185 A number of studies over many years have provided evidence that provision of accessible and

adaptable housing will result in cost savings for health and social care which outweigh the cost of

provision of the housing. Here we list three examples.

6.186 The Office of Disability Issues and University of Bristol study: “Better outcomes, lower costs -

Implications for health and social care budgets of investment in housing adaptations, improvements

and equipment: a review of the evidence”75 (DWP, 2007) identified four types of cost savings:

» Saving by reducing or removing completely an existing outlay such as saving the cost of residential

care and reducing the cost of home care:

“For a seriously disabled wheelchair user, the cost of residential care is £700-£800 a week -

£400,000 in 10 years. The provision of adaptation and equipment that enables someone to

move out of a residential placement produces direct savings, normally within the first year.

Home modifications can also help to prevent or defer entry into residential care for older

people. One year’s delay will save £26,000 per person, less the cost of the adaptation

(average £6,000).”

» Saving through prevention of an outlay that would otherwise occur, such as preventing hip

fractures and other health costs for disabled people and carers, and preventing admission to

residential care.

» Saving through prevention of waste, such as delays in adaptations leading to additional care costs;

such delays may not have occurred in an accessible property.

» Saving through achieving better outcomes for the same expenditure.

6.187 Habinteg HA response to the “DCLG Consultation Housing Standards Review, Technical Consultation:

September - November 2014” provides evidence that building a new Category 2 standard home can be

cost effective compared to adapting a standard home. The response on the Habinteg website states

that76:

“The costs of inaccessible housing are wide-ranging and significant. They include: the costs

of residential care that could otherwise be avoided; levels of social care that could be

reduced or removed; impacts on independent living, employment and social life; falls and

other accidents which can be life-changing or fatal; mental health impacts; impacts on

75

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general health; avoidable hospital admissions; increased stays in hospital due to lack of

accessible housing to return to (‘bed-blocking’), etc. Department of Health data (found here

on www.gov.uk) shows just one night in hospital costs the NHS around £273, whilst one’

week’s residential care averages £550 (Laing and Buisson, 2009, cited in Alzheimer’s Society

briefing, January 2011). So the estimated £521 cost of building a 3-bedroom home to

Category 2 standard would be met by just one week in residential care.”

6.188 The Leonard Cheshire Disability report “No place like home: 5 Million reasons to make housing

disabled-friendly” (2014) discusses providing Lifetime Homes, but the same principles apply to the

current standards for accessible and adaptable properties77. The report shows some of the savings for

the NHS, including a potential saving larger than the additional cost of building all homes in one year

to Lifetime Homes standard:

» Around 86,000 people fracture their hip every year. 95% of these fractures are the result of a fall,

often in the home.68

» The cost to the NHS of just one hip-fracture – perhaps caused by someone falling down the stairs - is

estimated as £28,000. In comparison, it costs only £1,100 extra to build new homes to Lifetime

Homes Standards.

» If an increased stock of disabled-friendly homes reduced the total number of falls by only 10% it

would save the NHS around £170 million a year. That is nearly half as much again than it would

have cost to build every new home in England to Lifetime Homes standard in 2013/14 – around £115

million.71

» Over the past year people spent over 40,000 unnecessary days in hospital beds despite being well

enough to go home because their homes were not suitably adapted.72 These wasted bed days alone

cost the NHS more than £11.2m every year.73

Other Supported Housing Needs

6.189 Whilst it is important for SHMAs to consider the support needs of disabled people in terms of the

housing requirement, it is necessary for this to be within the context of their support needs more

generally. Figure 139 sets out the growth in vulnerable and older people needs for each client group

over the 10-year period 2011-21 based on estimates from the Homes and Communities Agency

Vulnerable and Older People Needs Estimation Toolkit.

6.190 Rather than a single model, the HCA recognises the full range of need78:

“The HCA recognises that vulnerability covers a wide range and levels of need and that not

all vulnerable people need supported housing - for many, remaining in their own or their

family home with support may be the best solution. Some people may require on-going

support and care in permanent supported housing accommodation, whereas for others the

need for support may be for a limited period requiring tailored services that may be only for

a few months or perhaps up to two years in order to support residents into more

independent living, a settled lifestyle, education, training and employment.”

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6.191 For older people:

“This includes all housing which is specially designed or designated for older people; for

example, sheltered housing, extra care housing, registered care homes, retirement housing

or clusters of bungalows solely let to older people.”

Figure 139: Estimates of Vulnerable and Older People Needs in Gateshead 2011-21 (Source: Homes and Communities Agency

Vulnerable and Older People Needs Estimation Toolkit)

GATESHEAD 2011 2021 Change 2011-21

People aged under 18 in need

Teenage parents 437 406 -31

Young people aged 16-17 17 16 -1

People aged 18-64 in need

Alcohol misuse 677 673 -4

Learning disabilities 335 334 -1

Mental health problems 626 626 0

Offenders 373 373 0

Moderate physical or sensory disability 235 238 +3

Serious physical or sensory disability 70 71 +1

Refugees 22 22 0

Rough sleepers 7 7 0

Single homeless with support needs 477 477 0

People aged 65+ in need

Frail elderly 814 931 +117

Older people with mental health needs 1,346 1,538 +192

Older people with support needs 4,426 5,059 +633

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Figure 140: Estimates of Vulnerable and Older People Needs in Newcastle upon Tyne 2011-21 (Source: Homes and Communities

Agency Vulnerable and Older People Needs Estimation Toolkit)

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE 2011 2021 Change 2011-21

People aged under 18 in need

Teenage parents 539 520 -19

Young people aged 16-17 28 26 -2

People aged 18-64 in need

Alcohol misuse 1,131 1,191 +60

Learning disabilities 510 531 +21

Mental health problems 987 1,028 +41

Offenders 588 613 +25

Moderate physical or sensory disability 317 328 +11

Serious physical or sensory disability 89 92 +3

Refugees 34 36 +2

Rough sleepers 11 12 +1

Single homeless with support needs 753 785 +32

People aged 65+ in need

Frail elderly 895 1,061 +166

Older people with mental health needs 1,478 1,753 +275

Older people with support needs 4,862 5,765 +903

6.192 The modelling of supported housing needs is complex and it is essential that housing options are

established within the context of the strategy for wider support. It therefore isn’t appropriate for the

SHMA to determine these figures in isolation. Nevertheless, the numbers of people involved are

relatively low; so the overall need for various types of specialist housing is likely to represent a very

small proportion of the overall housing need for 12,586 dwellings in Gateshead and 26,050 dwellings

in Newcastle upon Tyne over the 24-year Plan period 2015-39.

6.193 There are also issues regarding new build viability; economies of scale are not strong (schemes tend to

be bespoke or involve low volumes) and competition for land (especially in desirable areas) drives up

values and costs. Further, the role of housing benefit in viability becomes more pronounced, and the

impact of Welfare reform will need to be taken into account. Consequently, some form of subsidy will

be required either from planning gain, land subsidy or capital contribution. On this basis, the

proposed delivery level may be lower than the identified need due to viability constraints. It will

therefore be important for housing and planning officers to continue liaising with their colleagues from

social care to ensure that appropriate housing is provided for the needs of Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne ’s residents.

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7. Space Standards Compliance with the 2015 Nationally Described Space Standards (NDSS) for Gross Internal Area (GIA)

Background 7.1 The CLG published the PPG Housing: optional technical standards in March 2015 covering:

» Accessibility and wheelchair housing standards

» Water efficiency standards

» Internal space standards

7.2 Accessibility and wheelchair housing standards are discussed above. This section deals with the

internal space standards.

7.3 The standards are optional and local authorities are required to gather evidence of the need to apply

them in their area before setting them in the Local Plan79:

“Local planning authorities have the option to set additional technical requirements

exceeding the minimum standards required by Building Regulations in respect of access and

water, and an optional nationally described space standard. Local planning authorities will

need to gather evidence to determine whether there is a need for additional standards in

their area, and justify setting appropriate policies in their Local Plans.”

(Paragraph: 002 Reference ID: 56-002-20160519)

Compliance with the 2015 NDSS for GIA 7.4 Internal space standards required in a Local Plan must be in accordance with the specified standards:

“Where a local planning authority (or qualifying body) wishes to require an internal space

standard, they should only do so by reference in their Local Plan to the nationally described

space standard.”

(Paragraph: 018 Reference ID: 56-018-20150327)

7.5 The nationally described standards are contained in the Housing: optional technical standards, which:

“Sets out requirements for the Gross Internal (floor) Area of new dwellings at a defined level

of occupancy as well as floor areas and dimensions for key parts of the home, notably

bedrooms, storage and floor to ceiling height.”

(Housing: optional technical standards, Paragraph 1)

7.6 The Gross Internal Area (GIA), measured in square metres, is defined in the Standards as being “the

total floor space measured between the internal faces of perimeter walls that enclose the dwelling”

and includes all internal spaces such as cupboards and other elements such as partitions.

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7.7 The NPPF was published in March 2012, predating the PPG Housing: optional technical standards.

However, paragraph 174 sets out a requirement for standards in Local Plans to be evidenced and to

take account of the cumulative impact of those standards:

“Local planning authorities should set out their policy on local standards in the Local Plan,

including requirements for affordable housing. They should assess the likely cumulative

impacts on development in their area of all existing and proposed local standards,

supplementary planning documents and policies that support the development plan, when

added to nationally required standards. In order to be appropriate, the cumulative impact of

these standards and policies should not put implementation of the plan at serious risk, and

should facilitate development throughout the economic cycle. Evidence supporting the

assessment should be proportionate, using only appropriate available evidence.”

(NPPF Paragraph 174)

7.8 In September 2011, RIBA published research in “The Case for Space: The size of England’s new

homes”80, which showed that:

“the family homes being sold by the UK’s eight largest private housebuilders was on average

8m² – the size of a single bedroom – smaller than the minimum standards drawn up for

London”.

(Quoted from Space Standards for Homes, 2015)

7.9 Following lobbying by RIBA and the publication of the Housing: optional technical standards PPG, RIBA

revisited the evidence for space standards on new developments, published as Space Standards for

Homes, 201581. This research focussed on 3-bedroom homes as an exemplar using a sample of 100

sites regionally spread across England built by the top 10 volume housebuilders by turnover. The main

conclusions which are relevant here were:

» Outside London, the average new three bedroom home is 4m² smaller than the new

standard, which is the equivalent size of a bathroom.

» Homes in London are bigger than in the rest of the Country. The average 3 bedroom

home in London is now 25m² bigger than in Yorkshire, “the equivalent of a double

bedroom and a family living room”.

Background: Summary 7.10 Considering the documents reviewed briefly above, we can conclude that:

» The PPG Housing: optional technical standards in March 2015 lays out internal space standards for

individual properties based on defined Gross Internal (floor) Areas. The space standards are called

the Nationally Described Space standards.

» Applying the standards is optional for local authorities and evidence is required of the local need for

the standards to embed the standards in local plans. Viability should be considered.

» RIBA argue that the lack of statutory space standards has led to smaller homes being developed.

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» Based on RIBA evidence, spaces standards of homes delivered in London appear to be higher than

outside the Capital and, while causation cannot be assumed, it is notable that the London Mayor

has adopted the national standard in the MALP.

Gateshead 7.11 Gateshead Council commissioned an evidence base of space standards from Newcastle upon Tyne

University, which was published as An Analysis of Space Standards in Gateshead in January 2016.

7.12 The study considered four case study sites based on size and “housing styles” and being relatively new

developments. The study was conducted through:

» Postal surveys to residents (79 valid responses);

» Electronic surveys to developers (2 valid responses);

» Analysis of existing data and documents (with a focus on lifetime and wheelchair

standards);

» Analysis of residential planning applications (Granted and Refused) between 2012 -

2015 (44 applications provided valid data using the measurements on the plans).

7.13 While the Gateshead report is an in-depth study, there are a small number of key results which are

relevant here (direct quotations are in italics, paraphrases in plain text):

» Of the 36 house types surveyed, 23 house types meet or exceeded the overall gross

internal space standards. (36% fail to meet the standards.)

» In terms of units being delivered on site, the figures for house types account for 415

units. Of these, 208 (50%) are considered the meet the overall gross internal space

standards.

» Only four house types meet or exceed both the overall and bedroom standard. Three of

these are 4- or 5-bedroom properties, while the fourth is a 3-bedroom property.

» three of the house types surveyed did not meet any of the standards.

» 47% of household survey respondents felt that some or all of their rooms needed to

be bigger.

» There is some evidence from the case studies that smaller house types are less likely than

larger house types to meet space standards.

Newcastle 7.14 This section explores the level to which actual development delivered in Newcastle upon Tyne over the

past two years has met the GIA standards for the geographic area of the City where the development

took place, the number of bedrooms and the number of storeys.

7.15 From planning records, a sample of 207 cases of new build house types within development were

taken and the internal area compared to the Standard GIA. The sampling took into account small,

medium and large development sites across viability areas in the city. The sample included the full

range of property sizes and storeys covered by the Standards. Conversions were excluded from the

analysis because of the complexity of dealing with listed buildings in central areas and where

dilapidation or under occupation of listed buildings could put the building at risk.

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7.16 The figures presented below are the result of an analysis based on total completions. Individual

dwellings were considered based on their attributes such as having 2, 3, 4 or more bedrooms or 1, 2,

or 3 storeys. Dwellings with more than 3 storeys have been excluded from the analysis as there is no

NDS standard provided for them.

Meeting the Standards across Viability Areas

7.17 Newcastle upon Tyne City Council work to six viability areas across the City:

» High (Urban Core)

» High

» High-Mid

» Mid

» Low-Mid

» Low

7.18 The number of completed dwelling achieving the space standards is shown in Figure 139, which shows

the total of 1,544 cases. The largest number of completed dwellings are in the High-Mid viability

areas; 515 completions, of which 223 met the NDSS followed by Low-Mid viability; 384 completions, of

which 165 met the NDSS. In Mid and Low viability areas 55 and 128 completions respectively achieved

the standard.

Figure 141: Number of Dwellings which meet or fall below the NDSS by Viability Area Classification (Source: Newcastle upon

Tyne City Council Planning Portal)

7.19 Figure 142 shows the proportion in each viability area classification that meet or fall below the

standard: 41% of completed new build properties meet the NDSS.

7.20 Considering the separate viability areas, the highest proportions of house types achieving or exceeding

the NDSS are in the High (Urban Core), High-Mid and Low-Mid viability areas (43% each), followed by

Low viability (40%) and High viability (36%). The proportions meeting the NDSS will be affected by

other factors, such as the predominant property sizes developed in each of the viability areas.

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

1000

High (UrbanCore)

High High-Mid Mid Low-Mid Low All

Meets

Falls below

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Figure 142: Proportion of dwellings which meet or fall below NDSS by Viability Area (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City Council

Planning Portal)

7.21 The study reviewed sites across Newcastle and representative of this city as a whole. To consider

where recent completions have occurred, the number and the proportions meeting or exceeding the

standard by Ward are shown below.

7.22 The highest number of completions were in Castle (412), Byker (246), Fawdon (177) Walkergate (135)

and Lemington (103). Nine Wards had fewer than 10 completions recorded. High numbers of

completions are to be expected in Castle, where Newcastle Great Park is delivering new homes within

a strategic housing site.

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

High(UrbanCore)

High High-Mid Mid Low-Mid Low All

Meets

Falls below

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Figure 143: Number of dwellings which meet or fall below the NDSS by Wards (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City Council

Planning Portal)

Ward Meets NDSS Falls below

NDSS Ward total

Benwell And Scotswood 17 18 35

Byker 105 141 246

Castle 211 201 412

Dene 11 48 59

Denton 10 9 19

East Gosforth 1 0 1

Elswick 1 0 1

Fawdon 45 132 177

Fenham 14 43 57

Kenton 27 4 31

Lemington 11 92 103

Newburn 6 0 6

North Heaton 0 1 1

Ouseburn 0 30 30

Parklands 0 1 1

South Heaton 1 1 2

South Jesmond 1 8 9

Walker 1 40 41

Walkergate 64 71 135

West Gosforth 3 0 3

Westerhope 34 46 80

Westgate 19 20 39

Wingrove 3 3 6

Woolsington 41 9 50

Total 626 918 1,544

7.23 Excluding wards with less than 30 properties, the highest proportions meeting the NDSS standard are

seen in Woolsington (82% of 50 properties), Castle (51% of 412 properties), Westgate (49% of 39

properties), Walkergate (47% of 135 properties) and Byker (43% of 246 properties) wards, which are

geographically spread across the City. The lowest proportion meeting the NDSS is seen in Lemington

(11% of 103 properties). There may be additional factors playing into this distribution which are less

significant in the other analyses, such as investment in certain areas of Newcastle upon Tyne.

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Figure 144: Proportion of dwellings which meet or fall below the NDSS by Wards (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City Council

Planning Portal)

Meeting the Standards by Property Size

7.24 While all the 6 or more bedroom properties meet NDSS, this is based on only five cases. However, all

of the 47 5-bedroom properties in the sample meet the standard. The majority (56%) of 1-bedroom

properties met the standard followed by 47% of 4-bedroom, 41% of 2-bedroom. The lowest

proportion meeting the standard was 27% of 3-bedroom properties.

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

Benwell And Scotswood

Byker

Castle

Dene

Denton

East Gosforth

Elswick

Fawdon

Fenham

Kenton

Lemington

Newburn

North Heaton

Ouseburn

Parklands

South Heaton

South Jesmond

Walker

Walkergate

West Gosforth

Westerhope

Westgate

Wingrove

Woolsington

Falls below

Meets

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Figure 145: Proportion of dwellings which meet or fall below the NDSS by Number of Bedrooms (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne

City Council Planning Portal)

Figure 146: Number of dwellings which meet or fall below the NDSS by Number of Bedrooms (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City

Council Planning Portal)

Property Size (number of bedrooms)

Meets NDSS Falls below

NDSS Total for

property size

One 89 71 160

Two 162 232 394

Three 157 426 583

Four 166 189 355

Five 47 0 47

Six 2 0 2

Seven 2 0 2

Eight N/A N/A 0

Nine 1 0 1

Total 626 918 1,544

7.25 The highest proportion of dwellings which meet the Standard is seen in single storey properties (55%)

compared to around 44% of 3-storey and 32% of 2-storey properties.

7.26 Included in the sample were 14 properties with either 4 or 5 storeys. These are not in the analysis as

properties with more than three storeys are not covered by the Standard.

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine

Meets

Falls below

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Figure 147: Proportion of properties which meet or fall below the NDSS by Number of Storeys (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City

Council Planning Portal)

Figure 148: Number of properties which meet or fall below the NDSS by Number of Storeys (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City

Council Planning Portal)

Property Size (number of storeys)

Meets NDSS Falls below

NDSS Total for

property size

One 188 153 341

Two 283 588 871

Three 141 177 318

Total 612 918 1,530

Level of deviation from the standards

7.27 So far we have considered the absolutes; whether dwellings on new developments meet, exceed, or

fall below the standards. Here the analysis turns to the level of deviation from the standards.

7.28 For this analysis, outliers were identified and removed. The criteria used was generous; any housing

type which exceeded or fell below the NDSS by more than 50% of the square metreage set as the

standard for that housing type, as defined by number of bedrooms and storeys, was considered an

outlier and removed. Outliers were not removed for the analysis of absolutes as it is assumed that

square metreage of 50% or more above the standard can be taken to mean the property exceeds the

standard and, similarly that square metreage of 50% or more below the standard can be taken to

mean the property falls below the standard, though it is not clear how far those properties deviate

from the NDSS. Data is also included for the sample before removing the outliers with a brief

discussion of the difference.

7.29 Once outliers are removed, the greatest differences from the standards are seen in the High viability

area, where, on average, properties fall below the standards by -13.50m2, followed by Mid viability

where, on average, properties fall below the NDSS by -5.11m2. The average for the Low viability areas

is also noticeably lower than the standards at -3.11m2.

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

One Two Three

Meets

Falls below

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7.30 It should be noted that the sample from the High viability areas included 13 cases, of which three were

recorded as being 261%, 154% and 59% above the standard and removed as outliers. The only other

case of such a high recorded deviation from the standard was of 191% in the High-Mid viability area.

No other outliers deviated from the NDSS by more than 80%, and typically they deviated by 50% to

65%. The sample for the High viability areas was considerably lower than for the other viability

classification areas, which each included samples of between 192 and 484 cases.

7.31 The Mid-High viability areas are the only viability areas where the average for individual properties

exceeds the standard; by +0.76m2.

7.32 Overall across Newcastle upon Tyne, the average newly developed property size fell below the NDSS

by -1.34m2.

7.33 Comparing the data with and without removing the outliers, it can be seen that the overall figure for

Newcastle upon Tyne is not affected significantly by the outliers: -1.34m2 with the outliers removed

compared to -1.35m2 including the outliers. The greatest difference is in the High viability areas where

the data including the outliers shows properties as being on average +30.69m2 above the NDSS

compared to -13.50m2 below once the outliers are removed. This difference is explained by the

magnitude of deviation in two of the outliers removed from the High viability sample and the size of

that sample. Other viability area classifications show smaller differences between the data sets.

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Figure 149: Average variation from NDSS GIA Standard by Viability Area with outliers removed (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne

City Council Planning Portal)

Viability Area Average difference from Standards

(square metre)

Low -3.11

Low-Mid -0.54

Mid -5.11

High-Mid +0.76

High -13.50

High (Urban Core) -1.67

Average Difference from NDSS for Newcastle -1.34

Figure 150: Average variation from NDSS GIA Standard by Viability Area without outliers removed (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne

City Council Planning Portal)

Viability Area Average difference from Standards

(square metre)

Low -2.84

Low-Mid -0.54

Mid -5.05

High-Mid +1.77

High +30.69

High (Urban Core) -1.65

Average Difference from NDSS for Newcastle -1.35

7.34 The variation from the NDSS by number of bedrooms is shown below for the sample with the outliers

removed. The sample for 5+ bedroom properties is too small to be considered here.

7.35 The largest percentage differences from the standards are seen in 3-bedroom properties, which on

average fall below the standard by -5%. This compares to 2-bedroom properties meeting the standard

when compared by percentage difference (-0.03% below the NDSS on average), while 1-bedroom and

4-bedroom properties are coming in above the standard by 1.3% and 1.7% respectively.

7.36 It is the 2-bed and 3-bed mid-sized properties which tend to fall below the standards. Three bed

properties have the greatest average difference in square metreage, at -5.0m2. The difference for 3-

bed properties is broadly similar to that quoted by RIBA for areas outside London of “4m² smaller than

the new standard, which is the equivalent size of a bathroom”.

Figure 151: Average variation from NDSS GIA Standard by Number of Bedrooms with outliers removed (Source: Newcastle upon

Tyne City Council Planning Portal)

Number of bedrooms Average difference from Standards

(square metre)

Average percent difference from

Standards

1 bedroom 1.19 +1.3%

2 bedrooms -2.48 -0.03%

3 bedrooms -4.82 -5.0%

4 bedrooms 1.97 +1.7%

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Summary

7.37 Overall across Newcastle upon Tyne, 41% of new properties meet the NDSS.

7.38 There appears to be little correlation between Viability Area status and delivery of properties which

meet the NDSS. The highest proportion of cases which meet or exceed the standard are in the high to

middle viability classifications: High, High-Mid and Low-Mid are all at 43% meeting the standard.

Lower proportions are seen in High viability (36%) and Mid viability (28%) areas.

7.39 The average square metre difference of individual properties, after outliers are removed, shows that

the High-Mid viability areas are alone in having properties meeting the standards on average (by

0.76m2).

7.40 Analysis by ward suggests that there is no clear geographic block of wards where the standard is

generally met or exceeded; the highest proportions are seen in wards across the City.

7.41 Among recent completions, 3-bedroom properties are notably less likely to meet the NDSS. In 3-

bedroom properties, 27% met the NDSS compared to at least 40% in each of the other sizes of

property by number of bedrooms. On average 3-bedroom properties deviate from the standard by -

4.82m2, or about 5% below the standard, compared to -0.03% on average in 2-bedroom properties,

with the other two property sizes meeting the standard on average.

Conclusions

7.42 The two studies support each other in some general conclusions:

» A third of house types assessed failed to meet the space standards (36% of house types

in the Gateshead study failed to meet the NDSS, the majority (64%) of 2, 3 and 4-

bedroom properties in the Newcastle upon Tyne analysis failed to meet the standard).

» There is some evidence that mid-sized house types, notably 3-bedrooms are more likely

to fail to meet space standards than 1 bedroom or larger house types (27% of 3-

bedroom properties failed to meet the standard in the Newcastle upon Tyne analysis

compared to 56% of 1-bedroom properties and 47% of 4-bedroom properties).

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Published Space Standards

Figure 152: Minimum gross internal floor areas and storage (m2) Table and notes reproduced from Housing: optional technical

standards, March 2015

* Notes (added 19 May 2016):

1. Built-in storage areas are included within the overall GIAs and include an allowance of 0.5m2 for

fixed services or equipment such as a hot water cylinder, boiler or heat exchanger.

2. GIAs for one storey dwellings include enough space for one bathroom and one additional WC (or

shower room) in dwellings with 5 or more bedspaces. GIAs for two and three storey dwellings include

enough space for one bathroom and one additional WC (or shower room). Additional sanitary facilities

may be included without increasing the GIA provided that all aspects of the space standard have been

met.

3. Where a 1b1p has a shower room instead of a bathroom, the floor area may be reduced from 39m2

to 37m2, as shown bracketed.

4. Furnished layouts are not required to demonstrate compliance.

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8. Housing Requirements Considering the policy response to identified housing need

8.1 The SHMA has established the Full Objectively Assessed Need for Housing in Gateshead to be 7,848

dwellings over the 15-year period 2015-30, with the equivalent figure for Newcastle upon Tyne being

16,924. These figures are consistent with the current Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne JCS 2010-

30 and therefore affirm that the Core Strategy and Urban Core Plan housing requirement continues to

meet identified housing needs and provides an appropriate basis for housing policy.

8.2 This is confirmed by Planning Practice Guidance for housing and economic land availability

assessments, which states that “housing requirement figures in up-to-date adopted Local Plans should

be used as the starting point for calculating the five year supply” (ID 2a-030). This point was further

emphasised in a letter from the Housing Minister to the Planning Inspectorate in December 2014:

“Many councils have now completed Strategic Housing Market Assessments either for their

own area or jointly with their neighbours. The publication of a locally agreed assessment

provides important new evidence and where appropriate will prompt councils to consider

revising their housing requirements in their Local Plans. We would expect councils to actively

consider this new evidence over time and, where over a reasonable period they do not,

Inspectors could justifiably question the approach to housing land supply.

“However, the outcome of a Strategic Housing Market Assessment is untested and should

not automatically be seen as a proxy for a final housing requirement in Local Plans. It does

not immediately or in itself invalidate housing numbers in existing Local Plans.

“Councils will need to consider Strategic Housing Market Assessment evidence carefully and

take adequate time to consider whether there are environmental and policy constraints,

such as Green Belt, which will impact on their overall final housing requirement. They also

need to consider whether there are opportunities to co-operate with neighbouring planning

authorities to meet needs across housing market areas. Only after these considerations are

complete will the council’s approach be tested at examination by an Inspector. Clearly each

council will need to work through this process to take account of particular local

circumstances in responding to Strategic Housing Market Assessments.”

8.3 The Local Plan period is 2010-2030. This SHMA considers the housing requirements from 2015 to

2030. In establishing the OAN, the SHMA has taken full account of all unmet need for housing that is

likely to exist as at 2015; therefore any under-delivery against current housing targets need not be

counted again equally, any over-delivery will have been taken into account and will have reduced the

OAN. However, whilst the OAN identified by the SHMA will be a key part of the evidence base, the

Local Plans will be the mechanism through which the SHMA evidence will be assessed against

environmental and policy constraints to identify a sustainable and deliverable plan requirement.

8.4 The Local Plan will also consider the spatial distribution of housing across the functional housing

market area.

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Affordable Housing Need 8.5 The SHMA has identified a substantial need for additional affordable housing: a total of 3,235

dwellings across Gateshead and 5,936 dwellings across Newcastle upon Tyne over the 15-year period

2015-30. Given the level of affordable housing need identified, it will be important to maximise the

amount of affordable housing that can be delivered through market housing led developments. Key to

this is the economic viability of such developments, as this will inevitably determine (and limit) the

amount of affordable housing that individual schemes are able to deliver.

8.6 As part of their strategic planning and housing enabling functions, the Councils will need to consider

the most appropriate affordable housing target in order to optimise affordable housing provision

without compromising overall housing delivery. This target should provide certainty to market

housing developers about the level of affordable housing that will be required on schemes, and the

Council should ensure that this target is achieved wherever possible in order to increase the effective

rate of affordable housing delivery.

8.7 PPG identifies that the Council should also consider “an increase in the total housing figure” where this

could “help deliver the required number of affordable homes”; although this would not be an

adjustment to the OAN, but a policy response to be considered in the Local Plan:

The total affordable housing need should then be considered in the context of its likely delivery as a

proportion of mixed market and affordable housing developments, given the probable percentage of

affordable housing to be delivered by market housing led developments. An increase in the total

housing figures included in the local plan should be considered where it could help deliver the

required number of affordable homes.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 2a-029

8.8 It will therefore be important for the Council to consider the need for any further uplift once the

affordable housing target has been established. However, as confirmed by the Inspector examining

the Cornwall Local Plan in his preliminary findings82 (paragraphs 3.20-21):

“National guidance requires consideration of an uplift; it does not automatically require a

mechanistic increase in the overall housing requirement to achieve all affordable housing

needs based on the proportions required from market sites. The realism of achieving the

intended benefit of additional affordable housing from any such uplift is relevant at this

stage, otherwise any increase may not achieve its purpose.

Any uplift on the demographic starting point … would deliver some additional affordable

housing and can be taken into account in judging whether any further uplift is justified.”

8.9 Given that the identified OAN already incorporates an uplift from the baseline household projections in

response to take account of suppressed household formation, with no uplift required in response to market

signals, this will contribute to increasing the supply of affordable homes through market housing led

developments. The Councils will need to consider whether there is sufficient justification for any further

increase in the total housing figures included in their Local Plans (beyond the identified OAN) as part of

their policy response to meeting the identified need for affordable housing; although it will be important to

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consider the implications of providing a higher level of market housing than identified by the OAN, in

particular the consequences on the balance between jobs and workers.

8.10 The contribution towards affordable housing delivery that can be achieved through market housing led

developments shouldn’t be considered in isolation. The Government has launched a series of new

initiatives in the past 5 years to attempt to boost the supply of homes, including affordable homes. The key

Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) investment programmes include:

» Affordable Homes Programme: the flagship HCA investment programme(s) for new

affordable homes – the 2015-18 programme intends to support the building of 43,821

new affordable homes across 2,697 schemes in England

» Affordable Homes Guarantees Programme: guaranteeing up to £10bn of housing

providers’ debt in order to bring schemes forward

» Care and Support Specialised Housing Fund: funding used to accelerate the development

of the specialised housing market such as Older People and those with disabilities

» Community Right to Build: (Outside London) including some provision for affordable

homes

» Empty Homes programme

» Estate Regeneration Programme: often creating mixed tenure communities

» Get Britain Building: aiming to unlock locally-backed stalled sites holding planning

permission and including affordable homes

8.11 However, there are currently a number of constraints that are affecting the delivery of new affordable

housing; although there is also a range of other initiatives that may help increase delivery in future.

Constraints affecting the delivery of new affordable housing

Other initiatives potentially increasing the delivery of new affordable housing

Welfare reform

Most stakeholders (including private landlords, house builders, local authorities and RPs) are concerned at the impact of benefit reform and the risk to their revenue. Credit rating agency have also signalled concerns.

Registered Providers

Many RPs have become more risk averse in their approach to developing new homes. The move to Affordable Rent as opposed to Social Rent housing and the resultant reduction in grant rates has made delivery and viability issues more pronounced. Grant level reductions in the AHP 2015-18 have, arguably, increased risk perceptions further.

Stock rationalisation by Registered Providers

The new regulatory framework for RPs continues the emphasis on economic regulation. This could, potentially, reduce current supply of affordable housing. Already, sector trends indicate many associations are identifying under-performing stock with a view to rationalisation.

Extension of Right to Buy (RTB) to Registered Providers

The Government pledge to introduce an RTB for RP tenants mean many associations will need to assess the risk to their Business Plans and this might reduce appetite for new development.

Councils building more new homes

Many Councils are now trying to bring new rental schemes forward following reform of the HRA system.

New ‘for profit’ providers

Over 30 ‘for profit’ providers to deliver AHP homes have so far registered with the HCA, mainly in order to deliver non-grant affordable housing. There is arguably potential for increased supply of affordable homes for rent by ‘for profit’ providers.

Co-operative Housing

Given current delivery constraints, co-operative housing has been identified as a further alternative supply for households unable to access ownership or affordable housing. The Confederation of Co-operative Housing, working with RPs, is currently trying to bring schemes forward. The HCA has held back funding for Co-operative Housing in the previous AHP.

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8.12 Recent Government pronouncements (including the Housing White Paper 2017) indicate a more

positive view of the role of the private rented sector. Whilst private rented housing (with or without

housing benefit) does not meet the definitions of affordable housing, it offers a flexible form of tenure

and meets a wide range of housing needs. The sector also has an important role to play given that

many tenants that rent from a private landlord can only afford their housing costs as they receive

housing benefit. If there isn’t sufficient private rented housing available at a price these households

can afford, the need for affordable housing would be even higher.

8.13 A Government task force was established in 2013 to encourage and support build-to-let investment83.

The HCA also has several investment programmes to help bring schemes forward. These include a £1

billion Build to Rent Fund, which will provide equity finance for purpose-built private rented housing,

alongside a £10 billion debt guarantee scheme to support the provision of these new homes. New

supply of private rented housing therefore seems likely from various sources, despite current volumes

being relatively low:

» Registered Providers are potential key players in the delivery of new PRS supply and

recently several have begun to enter the market in significant scale84, particularly in

response to the Build to Rent Fund, although other institutional funding is also being

sought. Overall, although interest is high, it remains unclear as to the scale of

development which may be delivered.

» Local Authorities can also enable new PRS supply to come forward by investing local

authority land, providing financial support (such as loan guarantees), and joint ventures

with housing associations, developers or private investors under the Localism Act. Whilst

LA initiatives may contribute to new build PRS, these will take time to deliver significant

numbers of units.

» Local Enterprise Partnerships are another potential source of new build PRS homes85.

The Growing Places Fund provides £500 million to enable the development of local funds

to promote economic growth and address infrastructure constraints in order to enable

the delivery of jobs and houses. Any funding for housing, however, has to compete with

other priorities e.g. skills and infrastructure. However, LEPs could potentially enable new

PRS housing delivery and some attempts have been made in this regard to increase

supply.

» Insurance companies and pension funds have been expanding into property lending in

recent years; especially schemes in London. Nearly a quarter of new UK commercial

property finance came from non-bank lenders in 2013.

8.14 National Government policy is also focused on improving the quality of both management and stock in

the private rented sector, and local councils also have a range of enforcement powers. This is

particularly important given the number of low income households that rent from a private landlord.

8.15 Given the substantial need for affordable housing identified for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne,

the Councils will need to consider the most appropriate affordable housing target as part of their

83

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http://www.insidehousing.co.uk/business/development/transactions/lq-to-launch-prs-subsidiary/7009701.article 85

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/growing-places-fund-prospectus

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strategic planning and housing enabling functions. However, it will also be important for the Council

to consider all of the options available to help deliver more affordable homes in the area.

Older People in Residential Institutions (Use Class C2) 8.16 The identified OAN does not include the projected increase of institutional population, which

represented a growth of 1,007 persons over the 15-year Plan period 2015-30, with 414 in Gateshead

and 593 in Newcastle upon Tyne. This increase in institutional population is a consequence of the CLG

approach to establishing the household population, which assumes “that the share of the institutional

population stays at 2011 levels by age, sex and relationship status for the over 75s” on the basis that

“ageing population will lead to greater level of population aged over 75 in residential care homes”.

8.17 Whilst these additional 1,007 persons aged over 75 living in communal establishments are not counted

as part of the OAN, an allowance is made for the dwellings that would be vacated by many of these

people. Not all would vacate dwellings, as some will have a partner or other family remaining in the

home; but further analysis of the data (assuming no growth in the institutional population) shows that

housing need based on the household projections would be 859 dwellings higher if the additional

bedspaces were not provided, with 348 more dwelling in Gateshead and 511 more dwellings in

Newcastle upon Tyne – so it is important to take account of these needs.

8.18 When considering housing supply, PPG states the following in relation to housing for older people:

How should local planning authorities deal with housing for older people?

Older people have a wide range of different housing needs, ranging from suitable and appropriately

located market housing through to residential institutions (Use Class C2). Local planning authorities

should count housing provided for older people, including residential institutions in Use Class C2,

against their housing requirement. The approach taken, which may include site allocations, should

be clearly set out in the Local Plan.

Planning Practice Guidance (March 2014), ID 3-037

8.19 On this basis, given that housing provided for older people in Use Class C2 should be counted against

the housing requirement, it is important that this need is also factored in when establishing the

housing requirement. Furthermore, as older people are living longer, healthier lives, and the

Government’s reform of Health and Adult Social Care is underpinned by a principle of sustaining

people at home for as long as possible, it does not necessarily follow that all of the increase in

institutional population should be provided as additional bedspaces in residential institutions in Use

Class C2; specialist older person housing such as Extra Care may be more appropriate for the needs of

some of these older people.

8.20 Therefore, when establishing housing requirement, it is necessary to take account of those dwellings

that were assumed to be vacated by people moving into care. This would allow the supply of

bedspaces in residential institutions in Use Class C2 to be counted against the housing requirement;

providing that this was calculated on the basis of the number of dwellings likely to be vacated in the

housing market.

8.21 Based on the SHMA analysis, an increase of 1,007 persons in the institutional population living in care

would have released 859 dwellings over the 15-year Plan period 2015-30. Recent market analysis by

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Knight Frank86suggests care home occupancy rates at around 88%, which would imply that 1,145

additional bedspaces would be needed to accommodate an increase of 1,007 persons. On this basis,

providing 1,145 care home bedspaces would release 859 dwellings in the housing market – a ratio of

1.33 bedspaces per dwelling.

8.22 Given this context, it may be appropriate to include the 859 dwellings assumed to be vacated by

people moving into care as part of the housing requirement in addition to the OAN. Bedspaces in care

homes would then be able to be counted towards the housing requirement, on the basis of 1 dwelling

being counted for every 1.33 bedspaces provided.

8.23 Alternatively, the Council may choose to establish a separate target for bedspaces in Use Class C2 and

monitor the associated supply of bedspaces provided. However, if this approach is preferred, it will be

necessary to consider the extent to which some older persons assumed to need residential care (and

therefore not counted as part of the OAN) may be diverted to Extra Care housing, and therefore

should be counted as part of the housing requirement.

Student Housing 8.24 PPG was updated in March 2015 to include specific reference to identifying the needs of students:

Local planning authorities should plan for sufficient student accommodation whether it consists of

communal halls of residence or self-contained dwellings, and whether or not it is on campus.

Student housing provided by private landlords is often a lower-cost form of housing. Encouraging

more dedicated student accommodation may provide low cost housing that takes pressure off the

private rented sector and increases the overall housing stock. Plan makers are encouraged to

consider options which would support both the needs of the student population as well as local

residents before imposing caps or restrictions on students living outside of university-provided

accommodation. Plan makers should engage with universities and other higher educational

establishments to better understand their student accommodation requirements.

Planning Practice Guidance 2014, paragraph 21

8.25 As noted in Chapter 3, the demographics projections assume that no further growth in student

numbers occurs from 2015 onwards. Any additional growth to student numbers which might occur

will need to be factored in to the housing requirements of the area.

8.26 The average household size for a student household in the 2011 Census in Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne was around 3.1 students per household. The household projections assume that the

number of students living in communal establishments (including university halls of residence and

student housing provided by private sector providers) remains constant over the period 2015-39.

However, if more student bedspaces are to be provided then this will reduce the need for other forms

of housing.

8.27 In terms of the supply of student accommodation, Planning Practice Guidance for Housing and

Economic Land Availability Assessment Paragraph provides the following statement:

How should local planning authorities deal with student housing?

8686

] http://content.knightfrank.com/research/548/documents/en/2015-3267.pdf

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All student accommodation, whether it consists of communal halls of residence or self-contained

dwellings, and whether or not it is on campus, can be included towards the housing requirement,

based on the amount of accommodation it releases in the housing market. Notwithstanding, local

authorities should take steps to avoid double-counting.

PPG Paragraph 38

8.28 Therefore planning authorities are required to assess the need for future student accommodation as

part of the Objectively Assessed Needs (OAN) in their area, and can then count any student

accommodation forthcoming as part of their land supply calculations.

8.29 The link between student needs and land supply was further clarified in a Judicial Review in 2015,

Exeter City Council v. Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government. In his decision, Justice

Hickinbottom stated that:

43. … Paragraph 3.38 does not allow – let alone require – all new student accommodation simply to be included towards the housing requirement, as Mr Whale suggests: rather, it allows an authority to reflect the release of accommodation units onto the general housing market as a result of new student accommodation (although, of course, in the unlikely event that the provision of student accommodation releases unit for unit to the general market, then the whole of the accommodation may effectively go to satisfy the requirement). That is clear from the words used; but also from the reference to communal student accommodation, which is not included in the housing requirement figure and (Mr Whale accepts) was in this case properly not included within the housing supply figure either…

44. Far from the Inspector’s approach to student accommodation and housing supply in this case being wrong in law, in my view it was eminently correct. She was correct not to accede to the Council’s submission that all student accommodation supplied should or could be set off against the housing requirement. She was correct not to be persuaded by the Developers’ contention that she could not under any circumstances take into account student accommodation. She was correct to look at the facts of this case and determine whether, on the evidence before her, there was any basis for taking any of the new student accommodation into account. Given the evidence that a substantial number of additional general market dwellings had been occupied by students, she was clearly entitled to find that there was not. She properly accepted (in paragraph 47) that, although there was currently no evidence to show that the provision of student accommodation has released housing into the general market in Exeter, the situation may in the future change if (e.g.) the delivery of student accommodation significantly exceeded the increase in student population.

8.30 Therefore, for a local planning authority to be able to count student accommodation as part of the

land supply calculation, they must assess the impact of students on their housing requirement, and,

also, demonstrate the impact of new student accommodation on the wider housing market. It is

clearly advantageous for students to live in purpose built accommodation, rather than in dwellings

which could be occupied by non-student families. However, for a local authority to be able to count

student accommodation as part of their land supply they must have assessed the needs of their

student population thoroughly. In the case of Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne student bedspaces

can be counted as part of the housing land supply on the basis of around 3.1-4. bedspaces equalling

one dwelling. Evidence from the SHMA 2013, examined in 2014 for the Cores Strategy supports the

ratio of 4 bedspaces equalling one dwelling. The need for student housing is dealt with as part of a

separate assessment rather than as part of the SHMA, so overcrowding in student households is not

considered here

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Gypsies and Travellers 8.31 ORS carried out a separate Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Needs Assessment (GTAA) on behalf

of Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne, which is reported separately. The relationship between the

figures from the GTAA and the OAN is explained here.

8.32 Planning Policy for Traveller Sites (PPTS) came into force in March 2012 and was updated in August

2015. This document sets out the Government’s policy for Gypsies and Travellers and represents the

only policy for a particular household group which is not directly covered by the NPPF. However, at

paragraph 1 PPTS notes that:

This document sets out the Government’s planning policy for traveller sites. It should be read in

conjunction with the National Planning Policy Framework.

Planning Policy for Traveller Sites, paragraph 1

8.33 An April 2015 High Court Judgement, ‘Wenman v SSCLG and Waverley Borough Council’, has clarified

the relationship between Gypsy and Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Needs Assessments and

OAN. At paragraphs 42 and 43, the Judgement notes:

“42. However, under the PPTS, there is specific provision for local planning authorities to

assess the need for gypsy pitches, and to provide sites to meet that need, which includes the

requirement to “identify, and update annually, a supply of specific deliverable sites sufficient

to provide five years’ worth of sites against their local set targets” (paragraph 9(a)). These

provisions have a direct parallel in paragraph 47 NPPF which requires local planning

authorities to use their evidence base to ensure that the policies in their Local Plan meet the

full objectively assessed needs for housing in their area, and requires, inter alia, that they

“identify and update annually a supply of specific deliverable sites sufficient to provide five

years’ worth of housing”.

“43. The rationale behind the specific requirement for a five year supply figure under

paragraph 9 PPTS must have been to ensure that attention was given to meeting the special

needs of travellers. Housing provision for this sub-group was not just to be subsumed within

the general housing supply figures for the area. Therefore it seems to me most unlikely that

the housing needs and supply figures for travellers assessed under the PPTS are to be

included in the housing needs and supply figures under paragraph 47 NPPF, as this would

amount to double counting.”

8.34 The position proposed by the Judgement is correct in that Gypsy and Traveller and Travelling

Showpeople households will form part of the household projections, concealed households and

market signals which underwrite the OAN calculation. The needs of these households are counted as

part of the overall OAN; therefore any needs identified as part of a Gypsy and Traveller and Travelling

Showpeople Needs Assessment are a component of, and not additional to, the OAN figure identified

by the SHMA.

8.35 We would also note that a change introduced by the Housing and Planning Act 2016 is the removal of

the 2 sections in the 2004 Housing Act that placed a statutory requirement on Councils to conduct a

specific assessment of need for Travellers. However PPTS still sets out that local planning authorities

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should make their own assessment of need for the purposes of planning Traveller sites, but that this

only relates to households who meet the new planning definition of travelling.

8.36 The Housing and Planning Act also introduces a new duty (under Section 8 of the 1985 Housing Act

that covers the requirement for a periodical review of housing needs) for local authorities to consider

the needs of people residing in or resorting to their district with respect to the provision of sites on

which caravans can be stationed, or places on inland waterways where houseboats can be moored.

Draft Guidance related to this section of the Act has been published setting out how the government

want local housing authorities to undertake this assessment and it is essentially the same as the GTAA

assessment process - referring specifically for example to concealed or doubled-up households and

unauthorised encampments.

8.37 The implication of the policy changes is that the housing needs of any Gypsy and Traveller households

who do not meet the new ‘planning’ definition of a Traveller will form a subset of any wider need

arising from households residing in caravans. In practice there is no evidence of any need in Newcastle

upon Tyne, but there is evidence of a small need in Gateshead of at least 5 pitches from households

that do not meet the planning definition and up to an additional 2 from unknown households. This

represent an important need because Romany, Irish and Scottish Travellers can claim a right to be

provided with culturally appropriate housing (caravans) based on their protected ethnic status

contained in the Equalities Act 2010. It should also be noted that a separate 5 year land supply for this

group is not required and meeting the needs of this group is a housing, not a planning, function for a

local authority. There is no known demand for additional moorings as there are sufficient to meet

current needs.

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Appendix 1: Stakeholder Engagement with the BME Community

Stakeholder Engagement with the BME Community 8.38 The BME and Minority Communities project was undertaken as part of the Councils’ SHMA.

Stakeholder engagement fieldwork was undertaken with a number of local community groups who

may, as part of their service, engage with clients from BME and minority communities; in addition to

this specific BME and religious organisations were contacted in both Gateshead and Newcastle. The

following organisations/communities were involved in the BME and minority communities Project

Fieldwork:

» The Angelou Centre

» Changing Lives Supported Accommodation - Newcastle upon Tyne

» West End Refugee Service

» North East Refugee Service

» YHN

» Newcastle upon Tyne College

» South Mountain Chinese Group

» West End Women and Girls

» Sure start Benwell

» Recovery Support Team

» Newcastle upon Tyne cab

» Families Matter, Sure Start Children’s Centre

» First Step

» Advocacy North

» Gateshead Visible Minority Ethnic Support Group

» Jewish Community

» Gateshead Muslim Society

» Advocacy centre north

8.39 The stakeholder fieldwork engagement was separated into the following strands:

Gateshead:

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» Fieldwork telephone interviews with 4 stakeholders;

» In addition to this those interviewed for Newcastle upon Tyne were also asked about their

engagement in Gateshead;

» Two focus workshops with the Muslim Society were held on 11th April 2017 (Men’s Group)

and 27th April 2017 (Ladies Group).

Newcastle:

» Fieldwork telephone interviews with 14 stakeholders.

Stakeholder Fieldwork Consultation in Gateshead and Newcastle 8.40 PPG: Housing and economic development needs assessments revision says that local planning

authorities need to work with87:

Local communities, partner organisations, Local Enterprise Partnerships, businesses and

business representative organisations, universities and higher education establishments,

house builders (including those specialising in older people’s housing), parish and town

councils, designated neighbourhood forums preparing neighbourhood plans and housing

associations should be involved from the earliest stages of plan preparation, which includes

the preparation of the evidence base in relation to development needs.

PPG Paragraph 007 revision date: 20 03 2015

8.41 As a result, this project included engagement with stakeholders in both Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne using telephone interviews to a structured Topic Guide. In addition to this two workshops

were undertaken with the Muslim Society in Gateshead. This fieldwork sought views on various

aspects of the current housing market and future housing needs of different BME and minority

communities, and these views informed the outputs of the study.

8.42 The views expressed in this Project Report represent a balanced summary of the responses given by

stakeholders. In some cases they reflect the views of the individual concerned, rather than the official

policy of their employer/organisation. In this Report, the abbreviation ‘RPs’ refers to Registered

Providers of affordable housing. In most cases the RPs are housing associations.

8.43 It is important to note that any qualitative interviews and focus groups provide individuals’ and

groups’ perceptions. The picture they give provides useful knowledge about attitudes and

preferences, both positive and negative. They can also provide important signals as to what is

happening on the ground in communities.

8.44 The main points relating directly to the SHMA have been extracted separately from the consultation

and are contained within the main body of the text.

Stakeholder Views - Current and future accommodation need

87

http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/blog/guidance/housing-and-economic-development-needs-assessments/the-approach-to-assessing-need/ - paragraph_007

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Overview

8.45 It was generally believed by stakeholders that both Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne has changed

in terms of ethnic composition over the last 10-20 years. This is supported by the Census figures

below, indicating there has been increasing diversity in the main ethnic groups between 1991 and

2011. The broad groupings used here are designed to allow comparison across the three Censuses,

each of which has different definitions of ethnic groups.

8.46 In Gateshead whilst the percentage of the White population categorisation (including Irish and Other

White) has reduced from 99.4% in 1991 to 96.3% in 2011, the largest increase between 1991 and 2011

was from the Indian sub-continent. There has also been a comparatively large increase in each of the

other broad groups between 2001 and 2011.

8.47 Similarly in Newcastle upon Tyne the percentage of the White population has reduced from 99.7% in

1991 to 85.6% in 2011 with the largest increase between 1991 and 2011 also from the Indian sub-

continent.

8.48 These figures point to an increase in diversity, and the stakeholder interviews suggest this is due to

people coming to live in the areas from Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, including a

perception of an increasing number of people from South America as an emerging trend.

Figure 153: Ethnic Group Profile of All Usual Residents in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: Census 1991, 2001, 2011)

Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne

1991 2001 2011 1991 2001 2011

White, Including Irish and Other White 99.4% 98.4% 96.3% 96.7% 93.1% 85.6%

Black & Multiple ethnic Black 0.1% 0.2% 0.8% 0.4% 0.8% 2.5%

Asian & Multiple ethnic Asian 0.4% 0.9% 1.7% 2.5% 4.8% 8.2%

Chinese 0.2% 0.2% 0.5% 0.5% 0.7% 2.2%

Other & Multiple ethnic other 0.2% 0.3% 0.7% 0.8% 0.7% 1.8%

8.49 The majority of the BME population own or part own their accommodation in Gateshead. Those

people who are Black/African are more likely to rent from the Council/RPs, Asian/Asian British are

more likely to rent privately/live rent free.

8.50 In Newcastle upon Tyne the majority of the BME population are more likely to rent privately/live rent

free than own or part own their homes; Asian/Asian British have greater numbers owning or part

owning their homes than other BME communities.

8.51 In Newcastle upon Tyne stakeholders highlighted that the West End is an area populated by

Bangladeshi and Pakistani communities and in recent years there had been an increase in the number

of Black/African and Arabic speaking communities; there is a large Muslim population in parts of

Elswick, Benwell and Fenham. There is said to be a larger Chinese Community in Newcastle upon Tyne

than in Gateshead. In Newcastle upon Tyne the district called Chinatown, located to the west of the

city centre (Grainger Town), is long established but is mainly commercial rather than residential. There

is a long-established Chinese population living elsewhere in the City, for example around Sandyford.

Wards such as Elswick and Byker, where there is now a significant community of Congolese and

Angolan heritage, are becoming increasingly diverse.

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8.52 In Gateshead there is an established orthodox Jewish community numbering several thousand living in

the Saltwell ward and Bensham area of Lobley Hill and Bensham ward. Both wards have a large and

diverse BME population.

8.53 Stakeholders gave the following views with regard to specific communities, which would need

consideration alongside readily available evidence:

» Homelessness within the Jewish Community is very rare as there are strong community

networks that can provide support.

» In Gateshead the majority of Jewish people live in Lobley Hill and Bensham, Saltwell and

Bridges wards. It is said these areas are preferred because of the sense of community and the

proximity to cultural facilities such as specific schools and kosher shops. The Gateshead Kolel

founded in 1929 and the tertiary education makes Gateshead an attractive place to live for

the Jewish Community across Europe.

» The type of accommodation needed both now and in the future is likely to be for affordable

larger family housing of 4+ bedrooms, with outside space and parking. Finding such housing is

a challenge because there are few larger houses available in the preferred areas and at a price

that can be afforded.

» Currently, many in the Jewish Community aspire to owner occupation in wards where the

existing community are established. Orthodox Jewish communities need to live within a short

distance of a synagogue to enable them to obey the laws of the Sabbath, which prohibit

driving or riding in a car or any other vehicle from sundown on Friday until sundown on

Saturday.

Gateshead Jewish Community Housing Needs Survey

8.54 Prior to this SHMA, between December 2016 and January 2017 the Board of Adler Housing conducted

a housing needs survey of the Gateshead Jewish Community. Of 535 Questionnaires issued, 110 full or

partially completed forms were returned.

8.55 The key findings of the survey are:

» The average household size from survey respondents was 5.9 persons per household, which is

far higher than the average household size across Gateshead as a whole.

» The majority of respondents presently reside in terraced homes (60%) or flats (23.6%).

» A large proportion of respondents are owner occupiers (54.5%) or in private rental (37.3%)

but very few reside in Council (1.8%) or Housing Association (3.6%) homes.

» Nearly 40% of respondents consider their home to not be suitable for their household’s needs

and nearly 20% of respondents consider the condition of their present home to be

inadequate.

» Over 37% of Respondents are expecting to move home within Gateshead within 5 years –

most of who state this is in order to achieve more space.

» Over 50% of respondents envisage needing more rooms in the next 5-10 years. Less than 12%

expect to downsize within that period.

» A majority of respondents (70%) aspire to Owner Occupation.

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» 36% of respondents state they have made efforts in the last 12 months to purchase a home to

suit their needs. The predominant challenges facing home seekers is ‘difficulty in finding a

suitable property’.

» Responses also reflect a smaller but growing future need for more accessible housing or

appropriate adaptations to support mobility.

8.56 Therefore, in summary the survey found that the Jewish community in Gateshead typically lives in

large households which are concentrated in a small area of the borough. Many are either currently

overcrowded or anticipate being so in the future, but there is a shortage of suitable properties for

them to purchase.

The Chinese Community

8.57 Stakeholders said there is a larger Chinese Community in Newcastle upon Tyne than in Gateshead. In

Newcastle upon Tyne there is a district locally termed “Chinatown” located to the west of the city

(Grainger Town). Stakeholders said that the Chinese community is more likely to live across

geographically dispersed areas of Newcastle upon Tyne but may well prefer to live in the Chinatown

area and around Sandyford. In Gateshead no preferred residential areas were mentioned.

8.58 In summary:

Stakeholders Views were that there is less likelihood of the Chinese Community choosing

Private Rented Sector (PRS) as this is less affordable than social housing without opportunities

to buy.

The Muslim Community

8.59 Two workshops/focus groups were held with the Muslim Society: (Men’s Group) on 11th April 2017

and (Ladies Group) on 27th April 2017. A total of 12 attended the workshops and a further 11

completed the Household Formation form.

8.60 The points below are an analysis of the forms completed, the views expressed in the workshops and

also issues raised by other stakeholders undertaking telephone interviews.

8.61 The majority of Muslim’s in the 2011 Census Gateshead lived in the Saltwell and Bridges wards. The

aspiration is to live in Bensham because the Muslim Community are more likely to live in areas where

there are cultural facilities e.g. mosques and halal shops.

8.62 In summary:

Stakeholders Views were that the future housing needs for the Muslim Community

are for 4+ bedroom houses with gardens and parking on secure estates.

Asylum Seekers and Refugees

8.63 Newcastle upon Tyne is recognised as a “City of Sanctuary”. Asylum seekers are usually housed under

arrangements funded by the Home Office and who operate a number of regional contracts. The

contract for the North East of England is currently with G4S who have subcontracted the work to a

private housing provider called Jomast.

8.64 Between October 2015 and June 2016, 2,646 people were resettled under the Syrian Vulnerable

Persons Resettlement Scheme (VPRS) in 188 local authorities. Local authorities resettling the highest

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numbers were Coventry (125), Gateshead (107) and Edinburgh (83); Newcastle upon Tyne resettled 72

(Home Office Data). Gateshead has committed to receive 110 Syrian refugees per year from 2015/16

to 2019/20, under the Syrian Refugee Resettlement Programme.

Accessibility of Housing Options

8.65 Some stakeholders expressed a view that there are barriers to accessing housing and housing support

for BME and minority communities. Barriers are said to include language constraints;; access to IT;

lack of education of applicant; lack of housing and/or credit history; having a poor housing history with

the councils such as rent arrears; the need for a deposit and one month’s rent to access the PRS; and

Universal Credit. It is not clear whether ‘lack of education’ refers to general education, specifically lack

of literacy in English, or knowledge about the housing system.

Partnerships and Networking

8.66 The following partnerships and forums where housing issues relating to BME and minority

communities can be discussed in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne were listed:

» The Diversity Forum

» Newcastle upon Tyne CVS

» The Benefits, Employment, Action Team (BEAT)

» North East Refugee Forum

» HealthWorks Newcastle upon Tyne (Parents-voice)

» Bensham Community Group

» Gateshead Strategic Partnership Steering Group

» Newcastle upon Tyne Gateshead Clinical Commissioning Group

» Gateshead Carers

» North East Equality Partnership

» Syrian Resettlement Programme

Conclusion

8.67 The BME surveys indicated a number of potential priorities for the Councils to consider alongside of

available local evidence. Of relevance to the SHMA report of housing need there was a perception that

there is a lack of new build larger affordable houses (4+bedrooms) in both Gateshead and Newcastle.

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Table of Figures

Figure 1: Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Joint Core Strategy ...................................................................................................7

Figure 2: Gatesheand and Newcastle upon Tyne Existing Housing Targets (Source: Gatershead and Newcastle upon

Tyne Joint Core Strategy) ......................................................................................................................................................8

Figure 3: Process for establishing a Housing Number for the HMA (Source: ORS based on NPPF and PPG) .......................................9

Figure 4: Household Projections for Gatesheand and Newcastle upon Tyne ....................................................................................10

Figure 5: Population Projections for Gatesheand and Newcastle upon Tyne 2015-30 by 5-year age cohort based SHMA

population projections ........................................................................................................................................................12

Figure 6: Meeting the need for M4(2) accessible and M4(3) wheelchair housing ............................................................................13

Figure 7: Full Objectively Assessed Need for Housing for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne 2015-30 .......................................16

Figure 8: Compliance with the 2015 Nationally Described Space Standards (NDSS) for Gross Internal Area (GIA) ..........................18

Figure 9: NHPAU Study – PAS OAN technical advice note ‘Starting Point’ (Source: NHPAU/CURDS 2010) .......................................25

Figure 10: ONS Travel To Work Areas (Source: ONS 2015) ..................................................................................................................26

Figure 11: House Prices 2016-17 (Source: Land Registry) ....................................................................................................................27

Figure 12: VOA Broad Rental Market Area Boundaries .......................................................................................................................28

Figure 13: Previous Area of Residence (12 months prior to Census) by Current Area of Residence (Source: 2011 Census

of Population) .....................................................................................................................................................................33

Figure 14: Workplace Location by Area of Residence (Source: 2011 Census of Population) ...............................................................34

Figure 15: Migration and Workplace Location by Area of Residence for the combined area (Source: 2011 Census of

Population) .........................................................................................................................................................................34

Figure 16: Map of the HMA Area .........................................................................................................................................................35

Figure 17: Process for establishing a Housing Number for the HMA (Source: ORS based on NPPF and PPG) .....................................38

Figure 18: Gatesheand and Newcastle upon Tyne Existing Housing Targets (Source: gatershead and Newcastle upon

Tyne Joint Core Strategy) ....................................................................................................................................................39

Figure 19: CLG Household Projections for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne: annual average growth (Source: CLG

Household Projections) .......................................................................................................................................................40

Figure 20: ONS Mid-Year Estimates and Sub-National Population Projections for Gateshead (Source: ONS) ....................................41

Figure 21: ONS Mid-Year Estimates and Sub-National Population Projections for Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: ONS) ...................42

Figure 22: Official population estimates for Gateshead for the period 1981-2015 (Source: UK Census of Population

1981, 1991, 2001 and 2011; ONS Mid-Year Estimates, including data since superseded) .................................................45

Figure 23: Components of population change (Source: ONS Mid-Year Population Estimates, revised) .............................................46

Figure 24: Components of population change, revised in the light of the 2011 Census (Source: ONS Mid-Year

Population Estimates, revised. Note: “Other Changes” includes adjustments for prisoners and armed forces.

Figures for 2001-02 onward presented unrounded for transparency, but should only be treated as accurate

to the nearest 100. Figures for earlier years rounded to the nearest 100) ........................................................................47

Figure 25: Components of population change without the inclusion of UPC (Source: ONS Mid-Year Population

Estimates, revised) ..............................................................................................................................................................48

Figure 26: Correlation between change in patient register and change in mid-year population estimates (Source: ONS

Mid-Year Population Estimates Quality Assurance Pack) ...................................................................................................49

Figure 27: Official population estimates for the period 1981-2015 (Source: UK Census of Population 1981, 1991, 2001

and 2011; ONS Mid-Year Estimates, including data since superseded) ..............................................................................50

Figure 28: Components of population change (Source: ONS Mid-Year Population Estimates, revised) .............................................51

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Figure 29: Components of population change, revised in the light of the 2011 Census (Source: ONS Mid-Year

Population Estimates, revised. Note: “Other Changes” includes adjustments for prisoners and armed forces.

Figures for 2001-02 onward presented unrounded for transparency, but should only be treated as accurate

to the nearest 100. Figures for earlier years rounded to the nearest 100) ........................................................................52

Figure 30: Components of population change without the inclusion of UPC (Source: ONS Mid-Year Population

Estimates, revised) ..............................................................................................................................................................53

Figure 31: Correlation between change in patient register and change in mid-year population estimates (Source: ONS

Mid-Year Population Estimates Quality Assurance Pack) ...................................................................................................54

Figure 32: Student Growth in Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: Council Records) .................................................................................55

Figure 33: Summary of Effects of Adjustments on Population Projections for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne for

2015-30 ...............................................................................................................................................................................56

Figure 34: Gateshead population projection based on 10 year migration trends and other adjustments ...........................................57

Figure 35: Gateshead population projections 2015-30 by gender and 5-year age cohort based on 2014-based SNPP and

SHMA projection with 10-year migration trend and other adjustments (Note: All figures presented

unrounded for transparency) .............................................................................................................................................57

Figure 36: Newcastle upon Tyne population projection based on 10 year migration trends ..............................................................58

Figure 37: Newcastle upon Tyne population projections 2015-30 by gender and 5-year age cohort based on 2014-

based SNPP and SHMA projection with 10-year migration trend (Note: All figures presented unrounded for

transparency) ......................................................................................................................................................................59

Figure 38: Economic Activity Rate long-term UK trends (Source: Labour Market Statistics based on Labour Force

Survey) ................................................................................................................................................................................60

Figure 39: Membership of private sector defined benefit and defined contribution schemes (Source: NAO) ...................................62

Figure 40: Employment rates for 60-74 years olds (Source: ONS, OBR. Note: Prior to 1983, the Labour Force Survey

does not contain an annual series for these indicators, so only available years are shown. The OBR medium-

term forecast to 2018 is produced top-down, not bottom-up, so the dotted lines for that period are a simple

linear interpolation) ............................................................................................................................................................63

Figure 41: Female participation rates by Cohort (Source: ONS, OBR) .................................................................................................64

Figure 42: Economic activity rates in 2015 and 2030 by age and gender based on OBR Labour Market Participation

Projections ..........................................................................................................................................................................65

Figure 43: Projected economically active population 2015-30 (Note: All figures presented unrounded for transparency) ...............66

Figure 44: Economic activity rates in 2015 and 2030 by age and gender based on OBR Labour Market Participation

Projections ..........................................................................................................................................................................66

Figure 45: Projected economically active population 2015-30 (Note: All figures presented unrounded for transparency) ...............67

Figure 46: Gateshead population projections 2015-30 by gender and 5-year age cohort (Note: Communal

Establishment population held constant for population aged under 75 (light blue cells), and held

proportionately constant for each relationship status for population aged 75 or over (orange cells); Totals

may not sum due to rounding) ...........................................................................................................................................68

Figure 47: Newcastle upon Tyne population projections 2015-30 by gender and 5-year age cohort (Note: Communal

Establishment population held constant for population aged under 75 (light blue cells), and held

proportionately constant for each relationship status for population aged 75 or over (orange cells); Totals

may not sum due to rounding) ...........................................................................................................................................69

Figure 48: Projected households and dwellings over the 15-year period 2015-30 for Gateshead ......................................................71

Figure 49: Projected households and dwellings over the 15-year period 2015-30 for Newcastle upon Tyne.....................................71

Figure 50: Households accepted as homeless and in priority need (Source: CLG P1E returns March 2005 and March

2015) ...................................................................................................................................................................................80

Figure 51: Concealed families by age of family representative (Source: Census 2001 and 2011) .......................................................81

Figure 52: Shared Dwellings and Sharing Households (Source: Census 2001 and 2011) .....................................................................81

Figure 53: Multi-adult Households (Source: Census 2001 and 2011) ..................................................................................................82

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Figure 54: Proportion of overcrowded households 2011 and change 2001-11 by tenure (Note: Overcrowded

households are considered to have an occupancy rating of -1 or less. Source: UK Census of Population 2001

and 2011) ............................................................................................................................................................................84

Figure 55: Trend in overcrowding rates by tenure, England (Note: Based on three-year moving average, up to and

including the labelled date. Source: Survey of English Housing 1995-96 to 2007-08; English Housing Survey

2008-09 onwards) ...............................................................................................................................................................85

Figure 56: Estimate of the number of overcrowded households in Gateshead by tenure based on the bedroom

standard (Source: EHS; UK Census of Population 2011) .....................................................................................................86

Figure 57: Estimate of the number of overcrowded households in Newcastle upon Tyne by tenure based on the

bedroom standard (Source: EHS; UK Census of Population 2011) .....................................................................................87

Figure 58: Trend in non-decent homes by tenure, England (Source: English House Condition Survey 2006 to 2007;

English Housing Survey 2008 onwards) ..............................................................................................................................88

Figure 59: Number of households on the local authority housing register 2001-16 (Note: Solid line shows total number

of households; dotted line shows number of households in a reasonable preference category. Source: LAHS

and HSSA returns to CLG) ...................................................................................................................................................89

Figure 60: Number of households on the local authority housing register at 1st

April (Source: LAHS returns to CLG) .......................89

Figure 61: Number of households on the local authority housing register at 1st April (Source: LAHS returns to CLG) ......................90

Figure 62: Number of claimants in receipt of housing benefit in Gateshead by tenure (Source: DWP. Note: No

breakdown by tenure is available for the period 2001-07 and data for 2007-08 was not published) ................................92

Figure 63: Number of claimants in receipt of housing benefit in Newcastle upon Tyne by tenure (Source: DWP. Note:

No breakdown by tenure is available for the period 2001-07 and data for 2007-08 was not published) ..........................93

Figure 64: Assessing current unmet gross need for affordable housing for Gateshead (Source: ORS Housing Model;

Note: totals may not sum due to rounding) .......................................................................................................................96

Figure 65: Assessing current unmet gross need for affordable housing for Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: ORS Housing

Model; Note: totals may not sum due to rounding) ...........................................................................................................97

Figure 66: Assessing affordability by household type and age (Source: ORS Housing Model based on Census 2011 and

DWP) ...................................................................................................................................................................................99

Figure 67: Components of average annual household growth by 5-year projection period in Gateshead and Newcastle

upon Tyne combined (Source: ORS Housing Model) ........................................................................................................100

Figure 68: Annual change in household numbers in each age cohort by age of HRP in Gateshead and Newcastle upon

Tyne combined (Source: ORS Housing Model) .................................................................................................................101

Figure 69: Affordability of new households over the initial 5-year period 2015-20 in Gateshead and Newcastle upon

Tyne combined (Source: ORS Housing Model) .................................................................................................................101

Figure 70: Components of average annual household growth 2015-20 in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

combined (Source: ORS Housing Model) ..........................................................................................................................102

Figure 71: Components of average annual household growth 2015-20 in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne

combined (Source: ORS Housing Model) ..........................................................................................................................104

Figure 72: Assessing total need for market and affordable housing for Gateshead (Source: ORS Housing Model) ..........................105

Figure 73: Assessing total need for market and affordable housing for Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: ORS Housing

Model) ..............................................................................................................................................................................105

Figure 74: Theoretical impact of reducing or increasing Housing Benefit support for households living in private rented

housing: Balance between households able to afford market housing and households needing affordable

housing 2016-34 and associated number of affordable dwellings ...................................................................................107

Figure 75: Process for establishing a Housing Number for the HMA (Source: ORS based on NPPF and PPG) ...................................109

Figure 76: Number of jobs for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne for 2005-2016 (Source: APS Workplace Jobs) .......................116

Figure 77: Annual house price rates of change, UK all dwellings 2004-2016 (Source: Regulated Mortgage Survey. Note:

Not seasonally adjusted) ...................................................................................................................................................118

Figure 78: UK and London House Price Index 2008-2016 (Source: ONS) ...........................................................................................118

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Figure 79: House Price Trends: Lower Quartile Prices (Source: ONS. Note: HMA figures derived using population

weighted average of Local Authority data) .......................................................................................................................120

Figure 80: Real House Price Trends: Lower Quartile Prices adjusted to 2015 values using CPI (Source: ONS; Bank of

England. Note: HMA figures derived using population weighted average of Local Authority data) .................................120

Figure 81: Real House Price Trends relative to England: Lower Quartile Prices adjusted to 2015 values using CPI

(Source: ONS; Bank of England. Note: HMA figures derived using population weighted average of Local

Authority data)..................................................................................................................................................................121

Figure 82: Ratio of Lower Quartile House Price to Lower Quartile Earnings (Source: DCLG. Note: Ratios prior to 2013

are calculated using a different source of house price data, HMA figures derived using population weighted

average of Local Authority data) .......................................................................................................................................122

Figure 83: UK household tenure projections to 2032 (Source: DCLG/IMLA) .....................................................................................123

Figure 84: Household Tenure by Area (Source: UK Census of Population 2001 and 2011. Note: Private Rent includes

tied housing and living rent free) ......................................................................................................................................124

Figure 85: Median Monthly Rent Values (Source: Valuation Office Agency 2013-2016, Note: HMA figures derived using

population weighted average of Local Authority data) ....................................................................................................125

Figure 86: Annual Housing Completions for Gateshead (Source: Gateshead BC AMR Data; CLG Live Tables; Census 2001

and 2011) ..........................................................................................................................................................................126

Figure 87: Annual Housing Completions for Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne AMR Data; CLG Live

Tables; Census 2001 and 2011).........................................................................................................................................126

Figure 88: Summary of Market Signals: Indicators Relating to Price (Note: Affordability Ratios prior to 2013 are

calculated using a different source of house price data, HMA figures derived using population weighted

average of Local Authority data) .......................................................................................................................................128

Figure 89: Full Objectively Assessed Need for Housing for Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne 2015-30 .....................................132

Figure 90: Gateshead population projections 2015-30 by 5-year age cohort based SHMA population projections .........................135

Figure 91: Newcastle upon Tyne population projections 2015-30 by 5-year age cohort based SHMA population

projections ........................................................................................................................................................................136

Figure 92: Total projected households for 2015 and 2030 and summary of 15-year change by age of household

representative for Gateshead (Note: Figures may not sum due to rounding) ..................................................................137

Figure 93: Total projected households for 2015 and 2030 and summary of 15-year change by age of household

representative for Newcastle upon Tyne (Note: Figures may not sum due to rounding) ................................................137

Figure 94: Total projected households for 2015 and 2030 and summary of 15-year change by household type and age

of household representative for Gateshead (Note: Figures may not sum due to rounding) ............................................138

Figure 95: Total projected households for 2015 and 2030 and summary of 15-year change by household type and age

of household representative for Newcastle upon Tyne (Note: Figures may not sum due to rounding) ..........................139

Figure 96: Housing mix of OAN for market and affordable housing in Gateshead (Source: ORS Housing Model. Note:

Figures may not sum exactly due to arithmetic rounding) ...............................................................................................140

Figure 97: Housing mix of OAN for market and affordable housing in Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: ORS Housing

Model. Note: Figures may not sum exactly due to arithmetic rounding) .........................................................................140

Figure 98: Weekly rent thresholds in Gateshead (Source: Valuation Office Agency 2014/15; Homes and Communities

Agency 2017) ....................................................................................................................................................................141

Figure 99: Weekly rent thresholds in Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: Valuation Office Agency; Homes and Communities

Agency) .............................................................................................................................................................................141

Figure 100: Affordability of households needing affordable housing by property size in Gateshead (Note: Weekly costs

based on data in Figure 98) ..............................................................................................................................................143

Figure 101: Affordability of households needing affordable housing by property size in Newcastle upon Tyne (Note:

Weekly costs based on data in Figure 98) – ......................................................................................................................143

Figure 102: Affordable housing mix by household affordability (Source: ORS Housing Model. Note: Figures may not sum

due to rounding) ...............................................................................................................................................................145

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Figure 103: Shared ownership costs (Note: Mortgage costs based on a 25-year repayment mortgage at 6.0% interest.

Rent based on 2.75% of the retained equity annually. Service charge assumed to be £10 per week) .............................146

Figure 104: Total weekly costs for shared ownership based on different equity shares (Note: Mortgage costs based on a

25-year repayment mortgage at 6.0% interest. Rent based on 2.75% of the retained equity annually. Service

charge assumed to be £10 per week. Cells highlighted in brown are above the LHA rate but below median

private rent, cells in red are above the equivalent median private rent. No cells are lower than the

equivalent maximum LHA) ................................................................................................................................................147

Figure 105: Starter Home Initiative (Note: Mortgage costs based on a 25-year repayment mortgage at 6.0% interest) ...................147

Figure 106: Comparison of weekly housing costs by property size for Gateshead ..............................................................................148

Figure 107: Comparison of weekly housing costs by property size for Newcastle upon Tyne ............................................................148

Figure 108: Summary of legislative changes affecting private tenants’ LHA (Source: HM Treasury, DWP) ........................................149

Figure 109: Number of Households by Tenure 1981-2011 (Source: UK Census of Population) ..........................................................151

Figure 110: Percentage of Households by Tenure 1981-2011 (Source: UK Census of Population) .....................................................151

Figure 111: Households by Tenure 1981-2011 (Source: UK Census of Population).............................................................................151

Figure 112: Mix of household types living in the private rented sector (Source: ORS Housing Model and Council Tax

Base) .................................................................................................................................................................................152

Figure 113: Number of Households by Tenure 1981-2011 (Source: UK Census of Population) ..........................................................153

Figure 114: Percentage of Households by Tenure 1981-2011 (Source: UK Census of Population) .....................................................153

Figure 115: Households by Tenure 1981-2011 (Source: UK Census of Population).............................................................................153

Figure 116: Mix of household types living in the private rented sector (Source: ORS Housing Model and Council Tax

Base) .................................................................................................................................................................................154

Figure 117: Ethnic Group Classification (Source: UK Census of Population 2011) ...............................................................................154

Figure 118: Ethnic Group Profile of All Usual Residents in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: Census 2011)..................155

Figure 119: Ethnic Group Profile of Household Reference Persons in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne (Source:

Census 2011) .....................................................................................................................................................................156

Figure 120: Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne residents employed in the Armed Forces (Source: 2011 Census) ........................158

Figure 121: Group and Individual Registrations currently looking for land in and around Gateshead and Newcastle upon

Tyne on the ‘Need-a-Plot’ Portal (Source: NCaSBA, February 2017 and Google Maps) ...................................................160

Figure 122: Benchmark Figures for Specialist Older Person Housing ..................................................................................................162

Figure 123: Additional Modelled Demand for Older Person Housing 2015-30 (Source: Housing LIN Toolkit) ....................................163

Figure 124: Specialist Housing Provision for Older People (Source: EAC 2015. Figures may not sum due to rounding) .....................164

Figure 125: Gateshead and and Newcastle upon Tyne Spending on DFGs in owned and rented private, and housing

association properties properties (Source: Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne Councils) ...........................................166

Figure 126: Newcastle upon Tyne Spending on DFGs by type for owner occupied, private rented and registered

providers (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City Council) ...................................................................................................167

Figure 127: Gateshead Spending on major adaptations in Council owned properties (Source: Gateshead Council) .........................168

Figure 128: Public Health England health profiles indicators 2017 (Source: PHI) ................................................................................170

Figure 129: On Housing Register with a recognised need to move on welfare grounds or disability (Source: Gateshead

and Newcastle upon Tyne City Councils) ..........................................................................................................................171

Figure 130: Total Number of lettings recorded on CORE for 2014-2015 (Source: CORE) ....................................................................172

Figure 131: Number of lettings recorded on CORE for 2014-2015 (Source: CORE) .............................................................................173

Figure 132: Gateshead and and Newcastle upon Tyne; resident population with LTLI ‘Day-to-day activities limited a lot’

by tenure (Source: Census 2011) ......................................................................................................................................175

Figure 133: Percentage of households with a wheelchair user by type of housing and age of household representative

(Source: English Housing Survey 2013-14) ........................................................................................................................176

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Figure 134: Households needing Wheelchair Adapted Housing (Source: ORS Housing Model. Note: Figures may not sum

due to arithmetic rounding)..............................................................................................................................................177

Figure 135: Level of work required to create full visitability (Source: EHS 2014-15 Annex Figure 2.3) ...............................................179

Figure 136: Gateshead; Stock age profile, excluding private Registered Social Housing providers (Source: Gateshead

Council, CLG) .....................................................................................................................................................................181

Figure 137: Newcastle upon Tyne; Stock age profile, private, non-social stock (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City

Council, CLG) .....................................................................................................................................................................181

Figure 138: Newcastle upon Tyne City; Stock age profile, excluding private Registered Social Housing providers (Source:

Newcastle upon Tyne Council, CLG) .................................................................................................................................182

Figure 139: Estimates of Vulnerable and Older People Needs in Gateshead 2011-21 (Source: Homes and Communities

Agency Vulnerable and Older People Needs Estimation Toolkit) .....................................................................................190

Figure 140: Estimates of Vulnerable and Older People Needs in Newcastle upon Tyne 2011-21 (Source: Homes and

Communities Agency Vulnerable and Older People Needs Estimation Toolkit) ...............................................................191

Figure 141: Number of Dwellings which meet or fall below the NDSS by Viability Area Classification (Source: Newcastle

upon Tyne City Council Planning Portal) ...........................................................................................................................195

Figure 142: Proportion of dwellings which meet or fall below NDSS by Viability Area (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City

Council Planning Portal) ....................................................................................................................................................196

Figure 143: Number of dwellings which meet or fall below the NDSS by Wards (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City

Council Planning Portal) ....................................................................................................................................................197

Figure 144: Proportion of dwellings which meet or fall below the NDSS by Wards (Source: Newcastle upon Tyne City

Council Planning Portal) ....................................................................................................................................................198

Figure 145: Proportion of dwellings which meet or fall below the NDSS by Number of Bedrooms (Source: Newcastle

upon Tyne City Council Planning Portal) ...........................................................................................................................199

Figure 146: Number of dwellings which meet or fall below the NDSS by Number of Bedrooms (Source: Newcastle upon

Tyne City Council Planning Portal) ....................................................................................................................................199

Figure 147: Proportion of properties which meet or fall below the NDSS by Number of Storeys (Source: Newcastle upon

Tyne City Council Planning Portal) ....................................................................................................................................200

Figure 148: Number of properties which meet or fall below the NDSS by Number of Storeys (Source: Newcastle upon

Tyne City Council Planning Portal) ....................................................................................................................................200

Figure 149: Average variation from NDSS GIA Standard by Viability Area with outliers removed (Source: Newcastle upon

Tyne City Council Planning Portal) ....................................................................................................................................202

Figure 150: Average variation from NDSS GIA Standard by Viability Area without outliers removed (Source: Newcastle

upon Tyne City Council Planning Portal) ...........................................................................................................................202

Figure 151: Average variation from NDSS GIA Standard by Number of Bedrooms with outliers removed (Source:

Newcastle upon Tyne City Council Planning Portal) .........................................................................................................202

Figure 152: Minimum gross internal floor areas and storage (m2) Table and notes reproduced from Housing: optional

technical standards, March 2015 ......................................................................................................................................204

Figure 153: Ethnic Group Profile of All Usual Residents in Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne (Source: Census 1991,

2001, 2011) .......................................................................................................................................................................216