A MAJOR new Government-backed investigation into the cost of rural housing is to focus on Evesham, it was announced this week.

The recently appointed Commission for Rural Communities will be sending representatives to the Vale to hold a meeting with residents to discuss the issues surrounding rural housing in the region.

The meeting is a result of a national inquiry into the availability of affordable rural housing. The Commission has identified Evesham as one of eight affected locations to assess the impact of housing problems in rural communities.

Giving details on the inquiry, Dr Stuart Burgess, the chairman of the Commission for Rural Commun-ities and England's Rural Advo-cate explained how a shortage of housing could have a devastating effect on rural communities.

"The lack of affordable housing is a nationwide phenomenon but its impact on rural communities and people can be particularly severe. The problem demands imme-diate attention which is why we have set up this inquiry."

Worcestershire's Housing Enabler Alan Saunders is one of those dealing with housing issues in the area and wants to ensure that the voices of the people of the Vale are heard.

"The Vale of Evesham is an area which in the past provided many seasonal or part-time jobs to the rural communities living in the area," said Mr Saunders.

"Although many of our villages appear to be healthy and vibrant communities, they also have very high affordable housing needs.

"I would encourage local people to come and talk directly with the Commission for Rural Commu-nities to make sure that the housing needs and the voice of the rural communities is heard."

The meeting is at the Memorial Hall in Wickhamford, from 6.30pm to 9pm on Tuesday, November 8 and is open to all.