Reform UK candidate’s claim on social housing challenged
Reform UK mayoral candidate Sian Astley alleged that Andy Burnham has not constructed a single social home during his nearly decade-long tenure as mayor of Greater Manchester, reports BritPanorama.
However, government figures indicate that 2,368 homes for social rent were completed across Greater Manchester from 2017/18 to 2024/25, including 611 in the last year alone, marking the highest annual total since 2011/12.
Following an inquiry from The Independent, Reform UK acknowledged that Ms Astley’s statement was inaccurate. The party clarified that her intention was to convey that social housing had “not been the priority” for Manchester City Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, rather than to assert that no social homes had been built.
The exchange highlights ongoing discussions regarding the priorities in housing development in the region, particularly under Burnham’s administration.
In effect, while criticism regarding social housing policies continues, the reality of public housing development suggests a more nuanced narrative. Issues surrounding social housing remain a critical aspect of political discourse in Greater Manchester.
