It is well known that housebuilding has been hit more severely by the recession than almost any other sector. The steep fall in property prices and consumer confidence, coupled with a dramatic reduction in the availability of mortgages, has proved toxic. The number of new houses built in England last year fell by half, and this year's figures are expected to show a further fall.Against this background, a lot of hopes are being pinned on the social and affordable housing programme and specifically on the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). Given the pivotal role that the HCA is expected to play in countering the impact of recession, it is salutary to remind ourselves that it has been in existence for fewer than six months. In that short time, Sir Bob Kerslake and his colleagues have won widespread plaudits for the energy and determination they have displayed in tackling the huge problems they face. Already, a number of major development schemes that would otherwise have died are still on course.
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