WELSH language campaigners have today called on the Plaid Cymru government to take ambitious action to tackle the housing crisis facing Welsh communities.

Cymdeithas yr Iaith (the Welsh Language Society) demanded a bold approach ahead of a statement by Cabinet minister for housing, Sian Gwenllian, later today.

Cymdeithas called for the minister to introduce a timetable and process for a Property Act incorporating the right to an adequate home into Welsh law.

The group also wants the housing and planning system reset so that a house is treated as a home rather than an asset, makes rents affordable and a higher percentage of the housing stock in community ownership.

Cymdeithas also demanded a review of second homes measures and assurances that will lead to local authorities using planning powers in favour of the Welsh language.

Cymdeithas’ Jeff Smith said: “In the face of a constant decline in the number of Welsh speakers now is the time to act ambitiously in order to ensure the future of the Welsh language as a living, community language.”