Senior momentum: What have the planners ever done for us?

This Housing LIN viewpoint no 59 has been written to identify some of the ways in which themes being discussed and implemented through the planning system could hinder or help in the supply of suitable and sufficient housing for the elderly.

Housing suitable for the elderly is wrapped up in the housing system seen as a whole.

There are reasons to believe that by meeting the needs of the elderly, the shortages of housing affecting other groups might also be relieved.

It is important that housing is regarded as a public good and that the planning system is used to control supply and adaptation in the wider public interest - addressing the problems being caused by short term political interests.