RESIDENTS are invited to have their say on future housing plans for the borough.

A new draft housing strategy, which has just been published, sets out the challenges facing policy makers as they aim to meet Dudley’s housing needs.

A growing population of elderly people, a high demand for affordable housing and the need to make homes more energy efficient to help cut fuel bills are among the key issues faced.

The new draft strategy, which forms part of a continuing consultation, includes plans to build more Extra Care housing for older people and encourages developers to build smaller one or two bedroom homes for single people or couples.

Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for housing in Dudley, said: “We are seeking views on the latest draft housing strategy which sets out what we think are the key challenges over the next few years and what we are planning to do.

“Affordability is a big issue for many people and demand for affordable social housing far outstrips what we have available.

“For this reason we will be looking at ways to build more affordable housing and also encourage owners of homes that are currently empty to get them back into use.”

A summary of the strategy and a questionnaire are available on the council’s Community Engagement Database at: www.dudley.gov.uk/community/ - and people have until Friday February 8 to air their views.