This DEFRA funded study is examining three issues: the wider community effects of low housing affordability levels (e.g. on social networks and capacity), the drivers of rural house prices in different settings and the case for stronger priority policies, supported by additional government investment in rural housing. It has several phases, including consultations within four communities across England each with a unique mix of housing pressures; surveys of local opinion and attitudes towards house building and local priority; and analyses of the drivers of house price change. The research is expected to contribute to policy development within DEFRA.