Looking ahead, Sir Kier Starmer has outlined potential solutions for the housing decline. He proposes building more homes, empowering local authorities to develop in green belt areas, and revamping the planning system.
Consequences of Anti-Development Interventions
Recently, the Home Builders Federation released a report exposing the consequences of anti-development interventions. This could lead to a drastic reduction in UK housing supply, potentially reaching its lowest levels since World War II. Non-elected single interest groups, such as Natural England, have also been identified as contributing to this decline. The supply of homes might plummet from 233,000 last year to below 120,000 per annum in the near future.
Five Missions for A Better Britain
To address these challenges, Sir Kier Starmer has introduced five missions that will serve as the foundation of his party’s 2024 manifesto. His “5 Missions for A Better Britain” policy aims to assist first-time buyers in accessing affordable homes through planning and compulsory purchase rule reforms.
Inefficiencies of the Current Planning System
Speaking at the British Chambers of Commerce annual conference, Sir Kier Starmer emphasized the inefficiencies of the current planning system. He believes these inefficiencies hinder growth and hold back the economy. To overcome these obstacles, he pledged to identify vested interests that need to be addressed.
Labour’s Vision for the Future
Lisa Nandy, Labour’s shadow secretary of state for the Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities committee, emphasizes the centrality of resolving the housing crisis for economic growth. The next Labour government plans to rebalance home ownership in favor of first-time buyers and rebuild the council housing stock.
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