Above, a pictorial description of Nimbyism (Source: https://everydayconcepts.io/nimby-not-in-my-back-yard/).
Michael Gove is a very clever man. He realises that his “street vote” idea will prove popular with many householders.
However, he should also be aware of the existence of the Law of Unintended Consequences.
The Guardian is well aware of this and has duly reported on this: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/may/11/street-votes-on-planning-rules-will-not-increase-affordable-housing
Living in the South West, I am only too well aware of the effects of Nimbyism, which combined with other factors is beginning to seriously hinder the economy and societal health of local communities.
A prime example of this is the pretty town of Salcombe (below) in Devon.
Salcombe is one of the most sought after places to live in the UK and as such many affluent people have second homes there. The result has been that property prices are “through the roof” and compete with Sandbanks in Dorset in the “most expensive locations” list!
The wealthy second home owners are now finding the corrosive and negative effects of this!
For them, it can be summed up in the classic phrase, “You just can’t get the staff!”
You see, rich second home owners – such as Michael Gove’s friends – routinely employ “domestics”. These are cleaners, gardeners, cooks and security guards. Salcombe’s rich residents are now finding it difficult to find these people for the simple reason these people can’t find anywhere to live nearby! Furthermore this staff shortage has spread to what is now referred to as the “hospitality industry”. When Mr Goves friends visit the expensive restaurants in Salcombe they are finding that they are now having to wait much longer to be served! Why? Because the restaurant owners have EXACTLY the same problem! “You just can’t get the staff!”
Now many Labour and Liberal Democrat politicians demand that something must be done” by which they mean discouraging second home owners in the first place.
This however is NOT the solution!
The solution – like so many – is unpopular to those who will benefit from it!
The solution is very, very simple!
One simply allows a housing association to purchase some fields just on the edge of Salcombe and then to build low cost affordable homes and apartments to RENT!
Of course, Mr Gove’s friends in Salcombe will be horrified at this! You see, Mr Anthony Mangnall – the local Tory MP – will point out that people in low cost rented accommodation tend to vote for Labour or the Liberal Democrats more than they do for the Tories!