THE chronic scale of the housing problem in East Dorset is becoming more apparent - and an even clearer picture is likely to appear later this year as businesses, organisations and the public have their say.

It is estimated East Dorset needs to find 600 affordable homes each year to keep up with demand - mostly from young people and families who can't afford to buy a home in the area.

A draft housing strategy report uses house prices from 2001, revealing detached homes selling at £211,000 and first-time buyers needing incomes of £25,000 to £30,000 to buy a two-bedroom flat or maisonette.

Ironically the report highlights the struggle faced by potential homebuyers three years ago when prices seemed compara-tively reasonable compared with the current market.

Today even more young people and families are stuck without a hope of getting a property, adding to the district's woes as it consults with residents and organisations.

East Dorset District Council is looking at all possibilities for action in its new strategy.

Bringing around 80 empty homes back into use is one identified possibility, and there is the option of trying to persuade people living in under-occupied large homes to move into "more appropriate" smaller properties.

A requirement for developers to provide 40 per cent affordable housing with each new scheme will also help deliver some of the new homes required.

Cllr Pat Hymer, at the council's policy and resources committee, said: "We are serious about this terrible problem of people who cannot afford to buy.

"We have a responsibility to the people who are waiting and waiting for a place to rent. I think more land should be available for affordable homes and I hope this debate will bring up how big the problem is."

First published: October 29