Woolas acts to try to save new council housing

The LibDems are backing the Tories in a threat to axe funding for new council house building in Shaw and Derker. The money was allocated by the last
 Labour Government in January. But the LibDems are backing the coalition government’s moves to cut housing budgets which threatens these much needed new homes.

The plans were part of Labour’s efforts to build new houses for local people and, at the same time, stem the recession and  help the construction industry during the economic crisis.

Phil Woolas MP is calling for the promised cash to be released and for additional homes to be built which in turn will get the economy moving.

 

Oldham East and Saddleworth MP Phil Woolas said: “Our local council house building is a start in helping meet the local need for more affordable homes. I want to see it expanded, not axed. We knew that the election of a Tory Government would lead to deep cuts to public services. But it is incredible that the new Government is backtracking on building affordable homes when the money had already been set aside.”

There are about 8,000 families on the council waiting list in Oldham.  

Phil Woolas MP said: “Labour’s plans meant Oldham was part of the biggest council house building programme for nearly two decades. When councils can offer low cost and good quality homes for local families, the Government should be backing authorities to build more, not looking to stop councils in their tracks.”

The LibDems are backing the Tory housing cuts despite their promises during the recent general election.