STRATFORD district is going to need around 10,200 new homes by 2040, according to new research.
With some 135,000 adults expected to be living in the district by 2040 – including around 46,000 people aged 66 and over, 34,000 first-time buyers (25 to 44 year-olds), and 5,700 of student age (18 to 22) – the analysis highlights the pressing need to accommodate the town’s demographic growth.
The research, by socio-economic experts at Marrons has revealed, also identifies high levels of under-occupancy, with more than 12,400 people aged 66 and over residing in homes larger than necessary (two or more bedrooms unoccupied).
If this trend continues, some 19,000 households are expected to be under-occupied by 2040.
In close proximity to several major universities, the district’s student-age population is projected to grow by 12 per cent to some 5,700 people over the next two decades.
Sandra Ford, planning director at Marrons in Stratford, said: “Even though Stratford is smaller in size than some of its West Midlands neighbours, we still seeing similar pressures on our local housing market.
“Over 10,000 new homes are needed by 2040 and these must reflect the needs of the population – we can’t just cater for the first-time buyer market, or the later living market in isolation.
“Building a range of homes to suit many different needs is not only a priority but a necessity. It creates more choice, aids first-time buyers onto the property ladder, gives expanding families additional space; helps the ageing population downsize and live in homes more suitable for their needs, and adds to the supply of affordable housing.”