In a significant move aimed at addressing the housing crisis, all councils in England are set to receive mandatory housebuilding targets under new planning reforms announced by the Government yesterday. Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner detailed the ambitious plan to construct 1.5 million homes over the next five years, emphasizing the necessity for increased housebuilding in areas most in need.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government revealed that only a third of councils currently have an up-to-date housing plan, defined as being less than five years old. This new directive mandates councils to proactively boost housebuilding efforts.
Rayner has communicated directly with every council leader and chief executive across England, stressing their “professional responsibility and moral obligation” to facilitate the construction of more homes. She warned that the Government is prepared to intervene and take over an authority’s planning if necessary.
Key aspects of the reforms include a presumption in favour of brownfield development and a requirement for councils to reassess green belt land to meet their targets. The Government has introduced the concept of ‘grey belt’ land, defined as areas that make a “limited contribution” to green belt purposes. Development on these lands must adhere to the ‘golden rules’ stipulating 50% affordable housing, enhanced green space access, and essential infrastructure such as schools and GP surgeries.
Simon Gerrard, managing director of Martyn Gerrard Estate Agent, welcomed the proposals but highlighted the need for further action. He pointed to issues within the permitted development rights system and urged for a revision of a High Court ruling that allows local planning authorities to block new homes on subjective grounds. Gerrard emphasized the need for the Government to show leadership and resolve within local planning bodies.
Nathan Emerson, chief executive of Propertymark, expressed optimism about the reforms, particularly the focus on an ‘infrastructure first’ approach and the use of brownfield and grey belt land. He called for a comprehensive housing strategy that ensures a balanced mix of homes and meets demand seamlessly.
“Ensuring sustainable homes in key areas is vital for the economy,” Emerson stated. “The return of mandatory housing targets and the commitment to building a mixture of housing must become a reality, driven by robust insight and close stakeholder engagement.”
As the Government moves forward with these reforms, the focus remains on delivering the promised 1.5 million new homes and addressing the urgent housing needs of the nation.