Unused faith spaces could help tackle the social housing shortage in Wales, according to a new report by the Bevan Foundation and Housing Justice Cymru.

The study has highlighted these spaces as possible options as many are no longer fit for their intended use or remain vacant as the demand for affordable homes continues to increase. 

It is estimated one in every 215 households in Wales are temporary accommodation.

According to the report, the housing crisis is worsened by a lack of suitable land for new developments. Many potential sites are either in low-demand areas, unsuitable, or inaccessible. High land costs also make many housing projects unaffordable.

The Bevan Foundation estimates up to 7,000 homes could be created by redeveloping unused places of worship and releasing faith-owned land. Repurposing these spaces would provide homes and preserve the buildings from decay.

Former Archbishop of Wales and chair of Housing Justice Cymru, Most Rev John Davies said: "There can come a time, a sad time, when a place of worship that has been much loved over the years, comes to the end of its viable life.

"The least attractive option for that building is that it closes and becomes a ruin.

"There are occasions when the clearance of the site and the construction of new facilities is a feasible option."

The Bevan Foundation and Housing Justice Cymru are urging the Welsh Government, local authorities, and faith groups to consider this as an option. They recommend a strategic approach led by the Welsh Government, involving collaboration and flexible policies to support redevelopment projects.

Wendy Dearden, senior policy and research officer at the Bevan Foundation, added: "These redevelopment opportunities are often dismissed as too difficult. With the housing shortage, we must explore every possible option. Our recommendations aim to overcome these barriers."