Planning overhaul to reach 1.5 million new homes

This government has announced  an ambitious plan to address England’s housing crisis by setting a target of building 1.5 million new homes over the next five years, equating to 370,000 homes per year. The reforms emphasize mandatory local council participation, greenbelt reassessment, prioritization of brownfield sites, and expanded social and affordable housing options.

It can be seen here, and in summary:

Key Points:

1. Housing Targets:
   • Mandatory annual housing targets for councils.
   • Focused growth in areas with acute affordability issues.
2. Greenbelt and Brownfield Development:
   • A “brownfield first” approach is prioritized.
   • Greenbelt revisions aim to identify and develop lower-quality “grey belt” land.
   • Strict “golden rules” mandate infrastructure and affordable housing in greenbelt projects.
3. Local Planning Overhaul:
   • Councils must adopt up-to-date local plans or risk government intervention.
   • Updated plans must align with the new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
   • Non-compliance by July 2026 will result in stricter housing supply requirements.
4. Support for Councils and Developers:
   • £100 million funding to assist councils in updating plans and assessing sites.
   • Increased planning fees and 300 additional planning officers to boost capacity.
5. Improved Housing Quality and Design:
   • National Design Guide and Model Design Code updates in 2024.
6. Social and Affordable Housing:
   • Greater emphasis on social rent and truly affordable homes.
   • Expanded powers for local leaders to deliver affordable housing.
7. Economic and Infrastructure Growth:
   • Developments must integrate essential community infrastructure (schools, healthcare, transport).
   • Housing-linked investments like the New Homes Accelerator and brownfield grants.
8. Legislative and Policy Initiatives:
   • The Planning and Infrastructure Bill is being developed to streamline planning processes.
   • Consultations and grants aim to refine and implement these strategies.

Broader Context:

• Addressing Immediate Needs: The plan targets 1.3 million families on housing waiting lists and the growing number in temporary accommodation.
• Long-Term Vision: Initiatives like New Towns Taskforce and significant housing guarantees aim to lay foundations for sustainable growth.

This comprehensive strategy represents a critical push to alleviate the housing crisis, increase homeownership opportunities, and support economic growth.