Rocketing prices and rents, a new homes shortage and a homelessness crisis. Vicky Spratt travels across Britain asking what went wrong with our housing and what can we do to fix it.
In part two of our series, we learn how and why housing has become unaffordable for so many, leaving millions locked out of the dream of homeownership and trapped in a spiral of rising rents.
The concept of a ‘housing ladder’ is embedded in our politics and culture. We trace the history and speak to experts, including politicians of different parties, who explain why they believe the ladder is broken.
We explore the impact on society and the wider economy – with experts warning that the housing crisis is stifling productivity.
What can the state do? How far should the government intervene in the market? We visit Scotland where controversial rent controls have been introduced.
And we get to grips with a central question in housing policy. If the UK government succeeds in supplying 1.5 million new homes, will that make housing more affordable?
Contributors include Kirstie Allsopp, Michael Gove, Gavin Barwell, Steve Reed, Matthew Pennycook, Andy Haldane. Kate Barker and George Young.
