Urgent Planning Reform Required to Achieve 1.5M Housebuilding Target in England, Labour Cautioned
Labour has been cautioned by the thinktank Centre for Cities that it will fall short of its manifesto target of building 1.5 million homes in England before the end of this parliament without more radical reform to the planning system. The report from the Centre for Cities highlights the need for a more ambitious approach from the government to tackle the housing crisis.
Analysis of Housebuilding Data
The Centre for Cities report delves into housebuilding data dating back to 1947 when the Town and Country Planning Act was introduced. Despite the government’s efforts so far, including local housing targets and increased funding for social housing, the report warns that these measures are not sufficient to meet the target.
Andrew Carter, the chief executive of the Centre for Cities, emphasized the need for a more ambitious approach, stating that the current planning system hinders the construction of an adequate supply of homes in key economic areas. The report suggests that even if private sector building reaches its peak performance, the government is still projected to fall short by 388,000 homes.
Proposed Solutions
The Centre for Cities advocates for a more drastic approach to planning reform, including the implementation of a zoning system. This system, commonly used in European countries, allows authorities to designate areas suitable for development, streamlining the planning process and removing barriers to housebuilding.
The report also highlights the impact of planning restrictions, such as the introduction of green belts in 1955, on the availability of housing. It specifically points out the risk of housing shortages in London and calls for an overhaul of housing plans in the capital.
Government Response and Challenges
While the government has reaffirmed its commitment to the 1.5 million homes target, it acknowledges the challenges in achieving it. The housing minister, Matthew Pennycook, admitted that fulfilling the target will be more difficult than initially anticipated by Labour.
Despite the government’s efforts to streamline the planning system and establish new housing initiatives, there are concerns from local councils, including those controlled by Labour, about the feasibility of the proposed targets. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government remains optimistic about delivering the necessary homes but recognizes the obstacles that lie ahead.
In conclusion, the Centre for Cities report underscores the urgent need for planning reform to address the housing crisis in England. Without significant changes to the current system, the government risks falling short of its ambitious housebuilding target, impacting the affordability and availability of homes for residents across the country.
