Affordable Housing Provision

There is significant demand for affordable forms of housing in the city. Although house prices are relatively low in Belfast by national standards, incomes are comparatively lower. Average rents are relatively high compared to other areas of NI and an acceleration in the rate of growth in house prices, increases in interest rates and inflation could lead to worsening affordability issues over the plan period. Therefore, housing provision will need to ensure a strong supply of affordable accommodation in the right locations. Land availability is one of the main constraints to developing affordable housing in areas of need – in this regard the LDP can identify suitable land, helping to rectify the supply shortage.