The National Housing Federation (NHF) has suggested taking second-hand homes off struggling developers could be the answer to Britain's affordable property shortage.
While the downturn in the housing market is stalling work on new builds, the NHF insists existing properties in disrepair should be seen as a viable alternative to cheap housing, reports nebusiness.co.uk.
The organisation is encouraging housing associations to snap up the sites at discounted rates as tightening economic conditions leave their developers cash-strapped.
However, some associations fear the scheme could lead to a proliferation of substandard accommodation.
Sarah Fawcett, head of property and development at Housing Hartlepool, tells the website: "Environmental standards in homes built by housing associations are higher than those stipulated in building regulations for private dwellings. Off-the-shelf developments do not meet these standards."
In related news, former minister Sue Essex has suggested allowing Welsh housing associations to borrow £100 million to build 6,500 affordable homes could solve the country's cheap housing shortage, according to the BBC.
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