RENTING or buying property in Trafford is out of the reach of many families, according to a leading politician.

Kate Green, the MP for Stretford and Urmston, has criticised figures showing that Trafford is the most expensive borough for renters and buyers in the entire North West region.

The figures on rents from the Valuation Office Agency show that the borough of Trafford has the highest monthly private sector rent in the North West, with families forking out £902 per month for rent on average.

Renters in Trafford are paying more than £300 more than the average renter in the North West who pays £592 a month.

For those wanting to buy their own home, the news is not much better, according to the National Housebuilding Council.

The income required for a mortgage in Trafford is by far the highest in the North West — at £68,677.

This is more than £20,000 per year more than the North West average (£41,676) and even higher than the national average (£66,034).

With average annual earnings in Trafford at £30,758, this means that a couple looking to buy their first home would both have to be earning above average to be able to afford a mortgage.

Research from housing charity Shelter IN 2016 showed that families earning the National Living Wage, would not be able to rent in Trafford.

Ms Green said: “It’s disgraceful that residents in my community typically pay so much more for rent than people elsewhere in our region.

“Having a roof over your head isn’t optional and it’s a real concern that Trafford families face these sky high costs for something as essential as housing. High rents round here are pushing local families into poverty.

“This government claims to be on the side of working people, but since 2010 we have lost more than 100,000 affordable council homes across the country and private rents are, on average, more than £1,600 per year more than six years ago. We simply can’t go on like this.

“I will do all I can to press Trafford Council Council and the government to build more affordable rented housing in Trafford.”

Richard Roe, acting corporate director at Trafford Council, said: “Trafford is a great place to live due to its excellent schools, quality and types of housing available, transport links and quality of life. There is a wide range of housing across the borough, and a vibrant housing market.

“The council is committed to delivering more affordable homes to meet local residents’ needs and our new draft five-year housing strategy sets out an ambitious vision for Trafford, highlighting the need for accelerated housing development overall and increasing affordable housing provision specifically.”

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