CAROLINE ANSELL MP: We need to solve the housing crisis

The government wants to reform the planning system and has undertaken a consultation on a White Paper spelling out some new proposals. I have made my own response to the consultation and I said any planning reforms can only work if councils can develop their own housing numbers and not be forced to adhere to national targets.

Some reject any change to planning but reform urgently needs to happen around empty homes and ensuring land where permission has been granted actually gets built on for example.

I see and make representations for local families who desperately need somewhere to call home and young people who can’t begin to dream of their own place. There are an incredible 1,631 empty properties in Eastbourne and around 1,000 unbuilt planning permissions. Rules need to come into force to ensure these assets get used and built and I will press ministers to look closely at achieving this.

Next Wednesday, November 25, is International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted gender-based violence all over the world, including sadly here in Eastbourne.

Lockdown has made this an acute issue. Two women a week are killed by a current or former partner in England and Wales and nearly one in three women aged 16-59 will experience domestic abuse in her lifetime, both according to the Office for National Statistics. These shocking figures were already rising before the pandemic.

I continue to be in touch with the police to discuss this issue and I have made representations to ministers. This day should highlight that more must be done and I hope local people get involved in raising awareness.

So many people in our town have gone the extra mile during the pandemic to look after the vulnerable and make sure those who are lonely are not forgotten. I thank everyone for doing what is such important work and the very essence of what successful communities like ours are all about. I have heard of many, many instances of generous help and selfless work from organisations, shops and pubs since March, but I know that there have been countless acts of individual kindness that have gone under radar. I am making a plea for people to get in touch with their stories of individuals who have gone the extra mile and helped out people in our town but who have not been recognised. I would like to recognise them with a note from me just to say thank you. Email me at: [email protected]

I have just signed up for the virtual Santa Run! No training required this year and the suit you get sent looks very forgiving. It’s a great way to raise money locally for local charities and groups. You can join me through the Visit Eastbourne website or calling 01323 415442.