(1888PressRelease)
May 16, 2007 - A poll by Propertyfinder.com found that 61.2 per cent of people in Britain believed more accommodation for struggling key workers and first time buyers should be built - yet almost four in ten were reluctant to see any development in their own neck of the woods.
According to the 39.1 per cent of respondents against housing construction in their neighbourhoods, the main reason for their opposition was the expected increase in congestion in the area following the development and a consequent lack of parking space.
A rise in noise pollution would also not be welcome, the survey reported.
"It seems the 'not in my back yard' mentality is alive and well in the UK," said Warren Bright, Propertyfinder's chief executive.
"While most people are sympathetic about the struggle facing would-be first time buyers and workers such as nurses, they are opposed to particular new developments in their area."
"While we undoubtedly need more family houses, smaller more affordable homes are also essential to help those trying to get onto the first rung of the property ladder," he added.
Julian King, director of National Homebuyers, says: "Although the construction of new homes is a great idea, it does not solve the first time buyers' current problems.
"We are being inundated with people who have very real, current problems. The development of hundreds of thousands of new homes will not solve the problems of those who are stretched beyond their means today.
"A quick sale option through National Homebuyers is an option where you can also remain living in the home you purchased for as long as necessary."
