Economic Migration from the EU 'A8' Accession Countries and the Impact on Low-demand Housing Areas: Opportunity or Threat for Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder Programmes in England?

Since EU enlargement in 2004, there has been a substantial influx of economic migrants to the UK from the `A8' accession countries. A significant number have moved into Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder areas, which are focused on reshaping failing housing markets. Through case study analysis, the degree to which such movement is beneficial—through stabilising areas of low demand and improving community cohesion—or problematic, given the increased demands on local services, is discussed. The research indicates that migrants are positively impacting upon such areas by increasing demand for private rented and owner-occupied housing, as well as having skills and qualifications that are supportive of achieving regional employment targets. However, the nature of such movements suggests that a review of HMR policy may be necessary, particularly in terms of how initiatives can respond to the needs and housing aspirations of those residents at most risk of social exclusion.