Siân Gwenllian MS, Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning.
Delivering genuinely affordable homes, that remain accessible to people and communities over the long term is the focus of this Government. Whilst I have prioritised the delivery of 20,000 homes for social rent by 2030, I recognise the importance of making homeownership more affordable in Wales to meet housing need.
It is important that homeownership is a reality for those who wish to, particularly for first time buyers. I also want to do everything I can to continue protecting those who face the greatest challenges from ongoing cost-of-living increases, keeping them safe in their own homes.
This is why I am pleased to confirm today, that I have agreed to extend Help to Buy – Wales to 31 March 2027, to support up to 400 additional households across Wales into home ownership.
I have also decided to extend the Empty Homes Grant to the 31 March will support up to a further 300 properties to be renovated and made into safe, energy efficient homes.
Finally, the Help to Stay Wales scheme will also be extended to the 31 March 2027 so that support remains in place for those suffering mortgage difficulties. Extending this scheme builds on our commitment in this Government’s 100 days plan, to help families in the cost of living crisis.
The combination of investing in affordable new build homes, grants to bring empty properties back into use and support to existing homeowners who are struggling to pay their mortgage, is a significant commitment to the people of Wales and also provides support for house builders and SMEs in our communities.
I would like to thank all our partners involved in these schemes, including homebuilders, local authorities, mortgage lenders and the Development Bank of Wales and I look forward to their continued input and support to assist as many people as possible. Work is already underway to review each scheme, and to consider how homeownership can be made more affordable in Wales over the long term.
This statement is being issued during recess to keep Members informed. Should Members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be happy to do so.