THE government's rural watchdog is re-examining the impact of the recession on housing.

It last investigated the issue of rural housing in March.

That inquiry found "serious stress" occurring within rural areas.

A full report can be downloaded here (pdf file).

Findings included a significant slowdown in the development of market housing and some types of social housing.

Although house prices were falling, there were worsening problems of affordability.

This was largely due to tightening mortgage lending.

The last inquiry also found a steeper rise in repossessions in rural than in urban areas and an increase in other signs of housing distress

This occurred alongside some hope that the downturn provided an opportunity for housing providers to take advantage of lower costs.

It also triggered hope that developers would take steps to address the rural housing crisis.

Juliet Johnson, of the commission's rural economies team called on rural stakeholders to submit fresh evidence to the new inquiry.

"Evidence and views are vital in making sure we are putting pressure on the government to address the problems being experienced on the ground in rural areas."

The commission was interested in hearing from rural housing associations, rural local authorities, a rural-based builders and developers.

It was also interested in hearing from residents struggling to find a new home or stay in their existing accommodation.

The commission's report will be published in at the end of July.

Any evidence shbould be submitted by Friday 10 July if possible. It should be emailed to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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