24 January 2019
An independent report which gives an evidence-based estimate of Jersey’s housing requirements between 2021 and 2030 has been published today.
The Objective Assessment of Housing Need Report estimates that almost 7,000 additional homes will be required in Jersey by 2030, assuming that recent trends in net inward migration continue. While the report provides the estimate, it will be for the States to determine the most appropriate policy solutions to deliver those homes.
The findings will help the Minister for Children and Housing, Senator Sam Mézec, and the soon-to-be-established Housing Policy Development Board to make policy decisions about the number and type of new homes that are required.
Senator Mézec, said: “This independent report is an important piece of work in informing the decisions this government takes around meeting the island’s future housing needs. The projected figures in it show the impact of differing levels on migration on the demand for housing and, while it is for others to consider Jersey’s migration policy, this report will help frame the discussions around both housing and our population policy.
“The report emphasises that the additional demand would not all be met by new-builds. It highlights how Jersey should consider how we make best use of the existing housing stock, including bringing vacant homes back into use, tackling under-occupation and the provision of key worker accommodation.”
The Objective Assessment of Housing Need Report was undertaken as part of the preparation for the next Island Plan which will be considered by the States Assembly in 2021. The report was carried out by Dr Michael Bullock and Chris Broughton of Arc4 Consultants working with stakeholders from across the island’s housing sector.
The report considers a number of different population scenarios and takes into account demographic changes, such as an ageing population, and the economic need for a sustainable level of inward migration. The maximum figure is based upon an assumption of a continuing trend in 1,000 inward migration leading to a demand for an additional 6,700, plus a 250 uplift for key worker accommodation.
gov.je