Economic Migration from the EU 'A8' Accession Countries and the Impact on Low-demand Housing Areas; Opportunity or Threat for Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder Programmes in England?

摘要

Since EU enlargement in 2004, there has been a substantial influx of economic migrants to the UK from the 'A8' accession countries. A significant number have moved into Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder areas, which are focused on reshaping failing housing markets. Through case study analysis, the degree to which such movement is beneficial-through stabilising areas of low demand and improving community cohesion-or problematic, given the increased demands on local services, is discussed. The research indicates that migrants are positively impacting upon such areas by increasing demand for private rented and owner-occupied housing, as well as having skills and qualifications that are supportive of achieving regional employment targets. However, the nature of such movements suggests that a review of HMR policy may be necessary, particularly in terms of how initiatives can respond to the needs and housing aspirations of those residents at most risk of social exclusion.