Trafford could be facing a shortage of 3,000 homes in just two decades’ time, according to government figures.

The number of households in the borough is expected to rise from 98,000 in 2019 to 109,000 in 2041, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) predicts.

But while the number of available properties in Trafford is increasing by just under 300 new homes a year, with 99,120 homes counted in the borough in 2018, government figures predict the housebuilding rate will be outstripped by the population increase.

If the current housebuilding rate continues, by 2041 there will be 105,982 homes available in Trafford – 3,018 short of the predicted 109,000 needed.

These figures also assume all homes currently sitting empty in Trafford will be brought back into use by the council.

There are 2,428 vacant properties in the borough; making up two per cent of the total housing stock.

If these homes remain empty, the housing market could be put under even greater strain in 20 years’ time.

A strained housing market could lead to inflated house prices and increased rent levels.

A spokesperson for Trafford Council said: “The fact that we have so many more people wanting to live in the borough shows it is such a desirable place to live. That is down to the fantastic communities we have here, as well as great schools, low crime, an award-winning town centre, excellent transport links and thriving businesses.

“We are committed to ensuring the overall number of properties is increased and our rate of housing completions has increased from previous years to reflect the extra need.”

The spokesperson explained the average number of additional homes built in Trafford in 2014 was 385.

The authority’s annual house building target, set by the government, now stands at 600. The council spokesperson added Trafford built 442 in the first financial quarter of this year alone.

They said: “The Greater Manchester Spatial Framework, which we are part of, is about providing the right homes, in the right places, for people across the city region.

“As a council, our new local plan will guide development in Trafford up to 2035, ensuring there is enough housing for all, built in sustainable communities with good access to jobs, services and infrastructure.”

The spokesperson added the council’s plans for £1.5 million’s worth of affordable housing in Stretford, around the town hall and on the old Kellogg’s factory site, will ensure residents have access to new homes that they can afford.

The council has already announced plans to charge home owners four times as much council tax for empty properties in a bid to get the homes back into use.