New MP Takes Bold Step in Parliament Before Maiden Speech: A Plea for Housing Action in South East Cornwall

In a bold move ahead of her maiden speech, Anna Gelderd, the newly elected Member of Parliament for South East Cornwall, made her presence felt in the House of Commons last night. During a pivotal debate, she highlighted the urgent housing issues plaguing her constituents, particularly the impact of second homes on local affordability.

A Crisis at Home

The housing crisis in South East Cornwall is reaching a tipping point, with local families, the elderly, and young professionals struggling to find affordable living options. The rise in holiday lets and second homes, although beneficial to tourism and the local economy, has left many local residents without viable housing solutions. This imbalance has exacerbated challenges related to employment, education, and access to services.

An Early Intervention

Before delivering her maiden speech, Anna took the opportunity to intervene in a debate that struck close to home for many of her constituents. She shared a heart-wrenching story of an elderly couple from Torpoint, both in their 90s, who were forced to live apart due to the lack of suitable housing. This personal story underscored the broader implications of the housing shortage in her area.

“In the constituency I represent, beautiful South East Cornwall, local residents are being priced out and we don’t have the homes that we need,” Anna stated, pressing the importance of governmental action on regulating second home ownership.

Governmental Acknowledgment

The Minister for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Matthew Pennycook, responded to Anna’s call, expressing regret over the Torpoint couple’s distressing situation and acknowledging the need for more focused efforts on second home regulation.

Looking Forward

Anna Gelderd is scheduled to formally articulate her vision for South East Cornwall in her upcoming maiden speech. She aims to push for significant reforms to ensure a sustainable future for her constituents, focusing on making housing both accessible and affordable.

As the community waits to hear more from their new representative, the urgency of these issues continues to resonate through South East Cornwall, promising a tenure marked by advocacy and action from their new MP.