Eleven local authorities in Devon, Plymouth and Torbay have set up a commission to address the ‘broken housing markets’ across the region.
The Devon Housing Commission is supported by the University of Exeter and will address issues including housing supply and affordability, homelessness, student housing and second homes.
The commission said it intends to develop a clear picture of the problems in local housing markets and understand the future need for housing supply.
It aims to produce a report with recommendations for housing and social policy change, making the case for a ‘step change’ in policy.
Its research will be informed by community and stakeholder engagement.
A spokesperson for West Devon Borough Council said: ‘The shortage of appropriate homes is having an impact on people's health and the economy. The commission will allow those affected to have their say and inform representations to Government.’
Politicians and housing experts from across Devon will be included in the commission.
Lord Richard Best, chair of the commission, said: ‘By bringing together those with a major role across the county the commission will be a powerful voice for the importance of good quality housing for health and the economy.
‘The commission will allow us to fully understand the origins of current pressures and look for innovative solutions from collective local action or significant policy change.’
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