Continued job losses and a weak local economy have had a strong effect on the housing market in North Staffordshire.

The local economy grew only slightly from 2000 to 2005, while incomes in Stoke-on-Trent are among the lowest in England, at an average of £16,100 a year.

The population of Stoke-on-Trent fell by almost 4,000 between 2001 and 2005. People are moving to surrounding areas – particularly Newcastle and the Staffordshire Moorlands.

However, RENEW projections show that as job-creating projects come on stream up to 2015 the overall number of jobs in North Staffordshire will grow by about 8,000.

This economic growth will help to fuel demand for new housing. More homes will also be required because people are living longer and in smaller households.

As a result of these factors it is anticipated that nearly 20,000 new households will be created by 2021.