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Angela Rayner’s Reforms to Boost House Building in the UK

In her dual role as Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary, Angela Rayner has introduced a series of ambitious reforms to address the UK’s housing crisis, with a goal of delivering 1.5 million new homes by 2029. These reforms, announced in late 2024 and early 2025, focus on loosening planning rules, easing environmental regulations, reducing bureaucratic red tape, and improving access to funding. While specific details on sites with up to 49 homes are limited, the broader changes are expected to significantly benefit smaller developments, making it easier for house building across England.

Streamlining the Planning Process

One of the central pillars of Rayner’s reforms is the overhaul of England’s planning system, which she has described as a “major brake” on economic growth. The reforms aim to streamline the approval process by allowing planning applications that comply with local development plans to bypass council planning committees entirely. This change, announced in December 2024, is designed to eliminate delays and provide greater certainty for housebuilders, particularly for smaller projects that may not require complex oversight.

Additionally, a national scheme of delegation will empower planning officers to make decisions on straightforward applications, while planning committees will focus on more complex cases. Mandatory training for committee members will ensure consistency and professionalism in decision-making, further reducing delays. These changes are expected to benefit smaller sites, including those with up to 49 homes, by simplifying the approval process and reducing the time and resources needed to start construction.

Planning Reform Details	Description
Bypassing Planning Committees	Applications compliant with local plans can skip committee review, speeding up approvals.
National Scheme of Delegation	Planning officers gain enhanced decision-making powers for straightforward cases.
Mandatory Training	Committee members will receive training to ensure consistent and professional decisions.

Easing Environmental Regulations

Environmental regulations have often been cited as a significant barrier to housing development, with rules such as nutrient neutrality stalling projects due to concerns over water pollution. Rayner’s reforms include targeted measures to address these issues. In December 2024, the government allocated £47 million to seven councils to unlock homes stalled by nutrient neutrality rules, which require developments to avoid increasing nutrient pollution in sensitive water bodies.

Furthermore, Rayner has suggested relaxing strict conservation laws protecting species like newts and bats, which have been accused of slowing construction and increasing costs. The government proposes using offsetting measures to protect nature and wildlife while allowing development to proceed. For example, developers might fund habitat restoration elsewhere to mitigate the impact of construction. While these measures apply broadly, they are likely to benefit smaller sites by reducing the environmental compliance burden, though specific details for sites with up to 49 homes are not explicitly outlined in available sources.

Environmental Regulation Changes	Details
Nutrient Neutrality Funding	£47 million to seven councils to address stalled projects due to water pollution concerns.
Species Protection Offsetting	Suggested relaxation of protections for species like newts and bats with offsetting measures.

Reducing Red Tape

The current planning system has been criticized for its complexity and inefficiency, often causing significant delays for developers. Rayner’s reforms aim to reduce red tape by modernizing the planning process. In addition to bypassing planning committees, the government is introducing a more rules-based system inspired by international models, such as New Zealand’s Auckland 2016 reforms. This “flexible zoning” approach aims to merge local plans with transport plans, guaranteeing planning permission for applications that follow established rules.

The reforms also include the removal of subjective requirements, such as the previous government’s mandate for new homes to be “beautiful,” which was seen as a vague and inconsistent hurdle. By focusing on well-designed homes that align with local plans, the government hopes to expedite approvals for all types of developments, including smaller sites. These changes are particularly relevant for sites with up to 49 homes, as they often face disproportionate delays due to limited resources and scrutiny.

Improving Access to Funding

To support the ambitious target of 1.5 million new homes, the government has introduced several funding initiatives. In December 2024, Rayner announced £500 million for the Affordable Homes Programme, aimed at increasing the supply of social and affordable housing. Additionally, £68 million has been allocated to 54 local councils to unlock brownfield sites, and £47 million to address nutrient neutrality issues, as mentioned earlier. These funds are designed to support a range of housing projects, including those on smaller sites.

While specific funding for sites with up to 49 homes is not explicitly detailed, the broader funding initiatives are expected to facilitate such developments by providing resources for affordable housing and infrastructure. The government has also hinted at further investment in social and affordable housing in the upcoming Spending Review, which could provide additional support for small-scale projects.

Funding Initiatives	Details
Affordable Homes Programme	£500 million to boost social and affordable housing construction.
Brownfield Site Funding	£68 million to 54 councils to unlock brownfield sites for development.
Nutrient Neutrality Funding	£47 million to seven councils to address environmental barriers.

Focus on Small Sites

Although specific references to sites with up to 49 homes are not widely reported, the general reforms are expected to have a significant impact on smaller developments. The streamlining of planning processes, easing of environmental regulations, and increased funding for affordable housing will make it easier for developers to build on smaller sites. Additionally, the government’s focus on releasing “grey belt” land—low-quality areas within the green belt, such as disused car parks—provides new opportunities for small-scale development. Any development on green belt land must include at least 50% affordable housing, ensuring that smaller projects contribute to addressing housing affordability.

The New Homes Accelerator, launched by Rayner in August 2024, is another initiative that supports smaller developments by deploying experts to resolve local issues and unblock projects stuck in planning limbo. While the Accelerator focuses on larger sites, its principles of reducing barriers and expediting approvals are applicable to smaller sites as well.

Broader Context and Controversies

Rayner’s reforms are part of a broader strategy to overhaul England’s planning system, which she has described as “broken” and overly susceptible to blockers. The reintroduction of mandatory housing targets, increased by 50% from previous levels, aims to ensure that councils play their part in delivering the 1.5 million homes promised in Labour’s manifesto. The government has also introduced “golden rules” for development, requiring new projects to include essential infrastructure like transport links, GP surgeries, and schools.

However, these reforms have sparked controversy. Critics, including the Conservative Party and organizations like the National Trust, argue that the focus on development may come at the expense of environmental protection and local democracy. The reclassification of green belt land as “grey belt” has raised concerns about the potential loss of valuable green spaces, and some councils have protested that the housing targets are unrealistic. Rayner has defended the reforms, emphasizing the need to balance housing needs with environmental and community interests, and has stressed that the government remains committed to protecting nature.

Conclusion

Angela Rayner’s planning reforms represent a bold and comprehensive approach to tackling the UK’s housing crisis. By streamlining planning processes, easing environmental regulations, reducing red tape, and improving access to funding, the government aims to create a more efficient and effective housing market. While specific details on sites with up to 49 homes are limited, the broader reforms are likely to benefit smaller developments by reducing barriers and providing resources. As these changes are implemented, they are expected to contribute significantly to the goal of building 1.5 million new homes by 2029, offering hope to families struggling to find affordable housing.

Government Policy Homes England House Building Nationwide Sureties

Homes England exceed Government targets

Homes England has significantly exceeded its 2023-24 housing delivery targets, demonstrating the agency’s pivotal role in supporting housing growth, economic regeneration, and community renewal across England. The latest figures show that the government’s housing accelerator enabled the construction of over 41,000 new homes, surpassing its internal forecast by more than 10%.

In total, 41,149 new homes were started or completed through Homes England programmes in the year ending March 2024, highlighting a sustained increase in output despite industry challenges including labour shortages, inflationary pressures, and planning delays.

Affordable Housing Boost: Thousands of Homes for Rent and Shared Ownership

A core focus of the delivery was the Affordable Homes Programme (AHP), which alone accounted for 33,345 new housing starts and completions. Within that total:

25,721 homes were delivered specifically for affordable rent or shared ownership.
7,624 homes fell under other tenures, including Rent to Buy and social rent.

This substantial delivery volume reaffirms the agency’s role in tackling the housing crisis by enabling more people to access quality, secure, and affordable homes in their local areas.

Key Output by Tenure (2023–24)

Strategic Land and Infrastructure: Unlocking Development at Scale

Beyond affordable homes, Homes England has made major strides in unlocking large-scale strategic sites and supporting enabling infrastructure through its Housing Infrastructure Fund (HIF) and Land Assembly Fund.

In 2023-24:

Over 7,800 homes were delivered through strategic land investment.
Critical infrastructure—roads, utilities, flood defences—was installed to unlock thousands of future homes.
The Brownfield Infrastructure Land Fund (BILF) and Levelling Up Home Building Fund (LUHBF) collectively mobilised over £1.2 billion in development finance and infrastructure grants.

Driving Housing Growth in Levelling Up Priority Areas

Homes England’s intervention has been strategically aligned with the government’s Levelling Up agenda, with targeted investment in northern cities, the Midlands, and coastal communities where market failure has historically constrained housing supply.

Notable highlights include:

Regeneration schemes in Bradford, Wolverhampton, and Hull.
£300 million investment in brownfield remediation to bring derelict sites back into productive use.
Expansion of SME housebuilder support through the Levelling Up Home Building Fund, enabling over 170 small developers to access working capital.

Delivering Specialist and Supported Housing

Specialist housing has also been prioritised. In the last year:

Over 1,100 new supported housing units were delivered for vulnerable groups including older people, those with disabilities, and people facing homelessness.
Collaboration with local authorities led to the release of surplus public land for custom and self-build housing.

Strong Pipeline Positions Agency for 2024–25 Success

Homes England enters the new financial year with a strong delivery pipeline:

Over 67,000 homes are contracted under the current Affordable Homes Programme (2021–26).
The agency has committed over £5 billion in long-term investment through joint ventures with housing associations, local councils, and private developers.

It continues to focus on:

Expanding modular and modern methods of construction (MMC).
Supporting net zero-aligned housing developments.
Strengthening the role of local partnerships in shaping place-led development.

A Year of Outperformance and Impact

Homes England’s performance over the past year not only exceeded numerical targets but also reflected a wider socio-economic impact—from creating jobs and apprenticeships to enhancing local infrastructure and community cohesion.

As the government continues to place housing delivery at the centre of its economic and social agenda, Homes England’s role as a delivery partner of choice is becoming ever more critical.

Sources:

Homes England Annual Housing Statistics (2023–24)
Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC)
National Housing Federation Policy Briefs

Construction House Building Nationwide Sureties

UK Property Ladder Crisis: Why First-Time Buyers Are Being Shut Out

The UK housing market is facing a sharp decline in confidence among prospective first-time buyers. According to recent industry data, the proportion of people intending to buy their first home has dropped to its lowest level in over a decade. Only 13% of respondents in 2025 said they plan to purchase a property in the next 12 months—down from 29% in 2022.

This steep decline illustrates a fundamental shift in housing affordability and accessibility. The combination of soaring mortgage rates, stagnant wage growth, and persistent inflation is creating a near-impossible landscape for those trying to get on the property ladder.

Key Barriers Facing First-Time Buyers in 2025

Mortgage Affordability Crisis

Mortgage costs have surged due to sustained interest rate increases by the Bank of England. As of Q1 2025, the average interest rate on a two-year fixed mortgage sits at 5.85%, making monthly repayments significantly higher than just three years ago.

With average property prices across the UK at £286,000, the required deposit and loan servicing costs are pricing out a generation. Lenders are also tightening credit checks and stress-testing rules, further narrowing access.

Deposit Shortfalls and Income Multiples

The typical first-time buyer deposit now exceeds £50,000, a figure completely unattainable for many renters. Simultaneously, banks are reluctant to lend above 4.5x salary multiples, limiting how much prospective buyers can borrow.

This issue is particularly pronounced in London and the South East, where house prices continue to outpace income growth dramatically. In many areas, saving for a deposit would take a decade or longer without financial support from family.

Rental Market Pressures

Ironically, while buying is out of reach, renting has become more expensive than ever. Monthly rental payments are, on average, 18% higher year-on-year, pushing many would-be buyers into financial limbo. They are trapped in a cycle of paying high rents, which diminishes their ability to save for a deposit.

Government Schemes Largely Ineffective

Failure of Help to Buy Successors

The closure of Help to Buy in 2023 left a vacuum that successor schemes like First Homes and Shared Ownership have failed to fill. Both initiatives suffer from poor regional availability, complex eligibility criteria, and criticism over long-term value.

First Homes, intended to offer properties at a 30–50% discount, is only available in limited areas and often fails to match local housing needs.

Lack of Meaningful Planning Reform

Despite repeated government pledges to “build 300,000 homes a year,” housing completions remain below target. Local opposition, planning bottlenecks, and developer land banking continue to stall supply. In 2024, only 238,000 homes were delivered.

Young People Losing Hope: The Generational Divide

Homeownership Rates by Age

Homeownership among 25–34 year-olds has halved since 2001, dropping from 59% to 29% in 2025. Meanwhile, ownership among over-65s has remained stable above 80%, underscoring the generational inequality embedded in the UK housing market.

This imbalance not only affects long-term financial security for younger people but also delays life milestones such as starting families or establishing community roots.

Parental Support Now a Prerequisite

Over 64% of first-time buyers in 2024 relied on financial gifts or loans from family—the so-called “Bank of Mum and Dad”—up from just 27% a decade earlier. For those without such support, homeownership is no longer a realistic ambition.

Construction Industry Under Pressure

Private Developers Scaling Back

Housebuilders are reacting to falling demand by delaying new projects. Taylor Wimpey, Persimmon, and Barratt have all announced cuts to construction targets and forecasted a 15–20% drop in completions for 2025. This retrenchment will further limit housing supply.

Labour and Material Shortages

The industry continues to grapple with post-Brexit labour shortages, particularly among skilled trades. Material costs, while stabilising slightly from the 2022 peaks, remain 35% higher than pre-pandemic levels. This constrains viability for affordable housing developments.

Policy Recommendations to Address the Crisis

Reform Stamp Duty for First-Time Buyers

We recommend raising the zero-rate threshold on stamp duty for first-time buyers to £500,000 nationwide, reflecting modern housing costs. This would remove a significant upfront barrier and better align tax policy with housing ambitions.

Introduce a Nationwide Rent-to-Buy Scheme

A fully government-backed rent-to-buy model would allow renters to accrue equity over time. Tenants could transition into ownership after five years, with a portion of rent payments contributing to a deposit fund.

Planning Reform with Local Incentives

Central government must accelerate planning reform and introduce financial incentives for local councils to approve developments. A “use it or lose it” clause on land permissions would also curb speculative land banking.

Conclusion: Without Intervention, Ownership Will Become Hereditary

The UK faces a housing market increasingly defined by exclusion and inequality. Without bold policy action, homeownership risks becoming the preserve of the wealthy and the inherited. Rebalancing the market requires coordinated reforms—from lending criteria and planning policy to support for renters.

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UK Construction Industry Responds to 2025 Spring Statement

Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered the 2025 Spring Statement amidst a backdrop of global economic uncertainty. The construction sector, a pivotal component of the UK’s economy, has closely analysed the statement’s implications. This article provides an in-depth examination of the key announcements affecting the construction industry and the sector’s reactions.

Housing and Planning Reforms

Record-Breaking Housebuilding Projections

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) forecasts that annual housebuilding will reach 305,000 units by 2029, culminating in 1.3 million homes over the next five years. This figure approaches the government’s ambitious target of 1.5 million homes within the current parliamentary term.

Planning System Overhaul

To facilitate this surge in housebuilding, the government has introduced comprehensive planning reforms. These include delegating planning decisions to professional officers, establishing national development priorities, and promoting development on underutilised land. The OBR anticipates that these changes will permanently boost GDP by 0.2% by 2029/30 and 0.4% by 2034/35.

Investment in Affordable Housing

£2 Billion Funding Injection

Chancellor Reeves announced a £2 billion boost to the Affordable Homes Programme, aiming to support the construction of 18,000 new social homes. This initiative is designed to bridge the funding gap for local authorities and housing associations, ensuring the timely delivery of affordable housing.

Industry Response

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) welcomed this investment. CEO Justin Young stated that the additional funding is a significant boost for the sector and, alongside planning reforms, should increase confidence among housebuilders.

Skills Development in Construction

£600 Million Training Package

Addressing the industry’s skills shortage, the government unveiled a £600 million package to train up to 60,000 new construction workers. This funding will support various educational and apprenticeship programmes, including 35,000 construction-focused skills bootcamp places and 10,000 new construction Foundation Apprenticeships.

Industry Endorsement

Tim Balcon, CEO of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), praised the initiative, highlighting CITB’s commitment of £32 million to support the government’s aim and plans to double the size of their New Entrant Support Team. He emphasised the importance of attracting new talent to the industry and seizing this opportunity to equip more people with essential skills.

Infrastructure Spending and Road Maintenance

Capital Investment Increase

The government announced an additional £13 billion of capital spending over the course of this parliament, signalling a commitment to infrastructure development.

Road-Building Budget Reduction

Despite the overall increase in capital investment, England’s road-building and repair budget for the coming year has been reduced by 5%, allocating £4.8 billion to National Highways. This reduction has raised concerns about potential impacts on economic growth, road maintenance, and congestion management.

Economic Growth and Fiscal Policies

Revised Growth Forecasts

The OBR has revised down the UK’s growth forecast for 2025 from 2% to 1%. However, it predicts GDP growth of 1.9% in 2026 and growth in every year thereafter.

Inflation Projections

Inflation is expected to average 3.2% in 2025, decrease to 2.1% in 2026, and reach the Bank of England’s target of 2% from 2027.

The 2025 Spring Statement presents a mixed outlook for the UK construction industry. While substantial investments in housing, planning reforms, and skills development are poised to stimulate growth, concerns remain regarding infrastructure funding reductions and the broader economic implications of fiscal policy adjustments. The industry’s response underscores the necessity for continued collaboration with the government to navigate these challenges and capitalise on emerging opportunities.

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Government unveils £350 million social housing initiative

Government unveils £350 million social housing initiative

In a move to address the UK’s escalating housing crisis, the government has announced a substantial £350 million investment aimed at enhancing the availability of affordable and social housing. This initiative underscores a commitment to providing secure homes for vulnerable populations and rectifying systemic issues within the housing sector.

The newly allocated funds are designated to bolster two primary housing programmes:

Affordable Homes Programme (AHP): Receiving £300 million, this programme is set to facilitate the construction of up to 2,800 additional homes, with a significant emphasis on social rent properties.
Local Authority Housing Fund (LAHF): Allocated £50 million, the LAHF aims to support the development of approximately 250 council homes, specifically designed to offer improved temporary accommodation for those in urgent need.

An additional £30 million is projected to be reallocated from previous funding rounds, bringing the total number of homes delivered under the LAHF to 2,700 by the conclusion of its third phase.

Concurrently, the government has articulated a robust strategy to combat the malpractices of rogue landlords who exploit the housing benefit system while neglecting property maintenance. These measures aim to safeguard vulnerable tenants from substandard living conditions and ensure that public funds are utilized appropriately.

This financial injection is a component of the broader “Plan for Change,” which aspires to construct 1.5 million homes over the next five years. The initiative seeks to address both population growth and the prevailing housing shortage, ensuring that more families have access to safe and affordable housing.

The announcement has garnered positive reactions from key stakeholders within the housing sector. Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, emphasized the importance of this funding, stating that it reflects the government’s recognition of the necessity to increase affordable housing stock, particularly social rent homes. She highlighted that this investment would sustain momentum in delivering essential housing solutions ahead of the forthcoming Affordable Homes Programme outlined in the Spending Review.

Beyond immediate construction goals, the government is focusing on sustainable development practices. This includes the intelligent reuse of existing vacant properties to enhance habitability, foster community integration, and reduce environmental impact. Such strategies are pivotal in creating resilient housing solutions that align with modern living standards and environmental considerations.

In summary, the government’s comprehensive £350 million social housing initiative represents a significant step toward alleviating the housing crisis. Through strategic fund allocation, stringent regulation of landlord practices, and a commitment to sustainable development, this plan aims to provide secure and affordable homes for those most in need.

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Government’s comprehensive plan for change

In a decisive move to bolster the United Kingdom’s infrastructure and stimulate economic growth, the government has unveiled the “Plan for Change“. This ambitious initiative aims to streamline the planning process, accelerate major infrastructure projects, and address the nation’s housing shortage, thereby laying the foundation for a more prosperous future.

Streamlining Legal Challenges to Infrastructure Projects

A significant component of the Plan for Change involves reforming the legal framework that governs challenges to major infrastructure developments. At present, projects can face up to three legal challenges, often resulting in lengthy delays and increased costs. The new plan proposes limiting such challenges to a single instance, thereby reducing the time and resources expended on legal proceedings.

Government data reveals that 58% of all major infrastructure decisions are subjected to court challenges, with each case taking an average of 18 months to resolve. Notable projects delayed by such challenges include the East Anglia wind farms, Sizewell C nuclear power station, and the A47 National Highway Project. By restricting the number of legal challenges, the government aims to expedite project timelines and alleviate pressure on the judicial system.

Image of countryside that could be a target for Plan for Change — Image by Peter H from Pixabay

Accelerating Housing Development Near Transport Hubs

Addressing the housing crisis is a central pillar of the Plan for Change. The government has set an ambitious target to deliver 1.5 million homes within the current parliamentary term. A key strategy to achieve this goal is the promotion of residential development around England’s commuter train stations. By introducing a “presumption in favour of building” and zoning schemes prioritising development near transport hubs, the plan seeks to improve access to jobs and enhance living standards.

Inspired by successful initiatives in cities such as Manchester, these planning reforms aim to reduce bureaucratic barriers and hasten the construction of new homes. Major housebuilders have welcomed these measures, recognising them as a positive step towards more efficient planning and development.

Revitalising the Oxford-Cambridge Arc

In a bid to position the UK as a global leader in innovation, the government has revived plans to develop the Oxford-Cambridge Arc, envisioned as a rival to Silicon Valley. This initiative aims to double the economic output of the region by 2035 through significant investment in research and development. The project has the potential to add £78 billion to the UK economy and has garnered support from key stakeholders, including university leaders and major firms such as AstraZeneca UK and Arm.

However, the plan faces challenges, including local opposition to new developments, housing shortages, and infrastructure requirements. The government has pledged to address these issues, with plans to construct 1.5 million homes and prioritise development to unlock the Arc’s full potential.

Expanding Airport Infrastructure to Boost Connectivity

Improving the UK’s connectivity is another focus of the Plan for Change. The government supports major airport expansions, including a third runway at Heathrow Airport and full-time use of Gatwick Airport’s second runway. These developments aim to increase airport capacity in southeast England, stimulate economic growth, and create jobs.

The proposed third runway at Heathrow involves upgrading existing infrastructure and adhering to environmental standards. At Gatwick, a £2.2 billion investment could operationalise the second runway by the end of the decade, generating substantial economic benefits. Furthermore, Luton Airport’s expansion plans await government approval, aiming to double passenger capacity with a new terminal.

Implementing the National Infrastructure Delivery Plan

The Plan for Change aligns with the objectives outlined in the National Infrastructure Delivery Plan, which details how the government will support the delivery of infrastructure projects and programmes. The plan highlights the importance of both public and private sector investment in achieving the nation’s infrastructure ambitions.

The latest National Infrastructure and Construction Pipeline outlines projected and planned investment over the next ten years, with a total value of £600 billion. This comprehensive approach underscores the government’s commitment to revitalising the UK’s infrastructure and driving long-term economic growth.

On the Plan for Change, prime minister Keir Starmer said: “For too long, blockers have had the upper hand in legal challenges – using our court processes to frustrate growth.

“We’re putting an end to this challenge culture by taking on the NIMBYs and a broken system that has slowed down our progress as a nation.

“This is the government’s Plan for Change in action – taking the brakes off Britain by reforming the planning system so it is pro-growth and pro-infrastructure.

“The current first attempt – known as the paper permission stage – will be scrapped. And primary legislation will be changed so that where a judge in an oral hearing at the High Court deems the case Totally Without Merit, it will not be possible to ask the Court of Appeal to reconsider. To ensure ongoing access to justice, a request to appeal second attempt will be allowed for other cases.”

Melanie Leech CBE, chief executive of the British Property Federation, said: “We can build great infrastructure in the UK – eventually. From power stations to bypasses, we take longer to deliver important national projects than other developed nations, and that has to change.

“If we want to grow the economy and fund vital public services, then we have to better balance environmental and community interests with the benefits of development, and do so in a clear and timely way. Reducing the scope for vexatious and unmerited legal challenges, whilst retaining a right to appeal, is a very positive step in achieving this.”

However, Roger Mortlock, CPRE chief executive, said: “The government should bring people together to tackle the climate emergency, not set them against each other with tired, divisive language.

“Campaigners bringing legal challenges only do so because they think the law is being broken. Allowing judges to block these concerns as ‘totally without merit’ is anti-democratic and, when it comes to the climate crisis, dangerously short-sighted.

“Climate change is the single biggest threat to the countryside. It’s clear we’ve got to build a clean energy grid fit for the future but the best way to achieve this is with local communities involved from the start.

“The UK could learn from countries such as Ireland and Australia, which involve communities in decision making from the beginning, reducing the need for lengthy and expensive legal processes without eroding democracy. For everyone’s sake, we should be building consensus, not dismissing people with real ideas and solutions as ‘blockers’.”

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Labour’s New Housing Policy

The Labour Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has outlined a transformative plan to address the housing crisis in the UK. Angela Rayner, Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, has committed to delivering the “biggest boost to affordable housing in a generation,” with ambitious reforms targeting both policy and implementation.

Boosting Affordable and Social Housing

Angela Rayner has pledged to deliver 1.5 million new homes within five years, focusing on affordable and social housing. Key initiatives include:

Reinstating Mandatory Housing Targets: Following their abolition under the Conservative government, Labour has reintroduced these targets, aiming to increase housing stock across the country.
Prioritising Social Housing: Labour plans to significantly boost council housing and social homes, ensuring long-term stability for local authorities and housing associations.
Flexibility in Funding: By reforming the Affordable Housing Programme, Labour aims to unlock government grants and redirect resources to high-demand projects, enabling faster delivery of homes.

Planning System Reforms

To streamline development, Labour’s policy introduces:

Simplified Approval Processes: Brownfield land development will be fast-tracked, with a default “yes” to applications that meet planning standards.
Targeted Green Belt Development: Some grey belt areas, such as disused car parks, will be repurposed under strict guidelines, ensuring 50% affordable housing and access to essential services like schools and healthcare.
Updated Housing Needs Assessments: Calculations for land allocation will use modern data, replacing outdated metrics from 2014.

Accountability for Developers

Labour plans to hold developers accountable for their obligations to build affordable housing. Measures include:

Enhanced Oversight: A “Take Back Control Unit” will assist local authorities in negotiating with developers under Section 106 agreements.
Transparency in Viability Assessments: Standardised national guidelines will ensure developers cannot evade commitments without legitimate cause.

Balancing Aesthetics and Practicality

Labour has moved away from the Conservatives’ emphasis on “beauty” in new builds, focusing instead on “exemplary” standards for design and functionality. This approach aims to prioritise liveability and sustainability over subjective aesthetic criteria.

Addressing Private Sector Challenges

Labour’s housing strategy also includes reforms for the private rented sector, such as improving tenant protections and ensuring better regulation of leasehold arrangements. These measures are designed to tackle rising rents and insecure housing conditions.

The Long-Term Impact

Labour’s comprehensive housing strategy seeks to address the housing emergency by ensuring a stable, long-term plan. Key stakeholders, including the Chartered Institute for Housing and the National Housing Federation, have endorsed the proposals as a significant step towards resolving the crisis. With 5 million households projected to face unaffordable housing without intervention, Labour’s reforms aim to restore hope for millions across the UK.

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Milbank Concrete Products deliver UK’s first precast concrete hollowcore floor installation on 100% renewable fuel

Milbank Concrete Products, a leading precast concrete company based in Essex, is proud to announce a ground-breaking achievement in sustainable construction. The company has successfully completed the UK’s first-ever delivery and installation of precast concrete hollowcore floors using 100% renewable Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) second generation biofuel.

The installation of over 190m² of hollowcore flooring and 3 flights of precast stairs, on behalf of Tilia Homes located within their Sovereign Gate development in Thetford, marks the UK’s first-ever precast concrete installation using 100% HVO fuel throughout the entire process, from delivery to installation.

Tilia Homes HVO Installation. — Image: Milbank Concrete Products

The delivery lorry (in partnership with Woodland Logistics), the mobile crane (in partnership with Cadman Cranes), and the site team installation van all ran on HVO fuel, a renewable fuel alternative to regular diesel. This innovative approach reduces the project’s installation carbon emissions by over 90% and sets a new standard for environmentally responsible construction practices.

Hollowcore floors are a popular choice for housebuilders across the country. Prefabricated concrete slabs known for their strength, durability, and lightweight design are lowered into position via a crane, usually found seated on masonry walls or steel frames. Manufactured with strategically placed voids, these slabs offer excellent fire resistance, sound insulation, and thermal performance. They are a popular choice for and large residential projects, multi-story buildings and commercial spaces.

Ben Sharp, Tilia Home’s Senior Site Manager at the Sovereign Gate project, said – “Tilia Homes is committed to preventing environmental harm. This installation marks a pivotal moment within the construction industry, and we are delighted to be able to work with Milbank whose values align so closely with ours. This installation truly demonstrated the value of responsible construction and contributed towards an important reduction in our emissions at this project.”

And the savings weren’t just limited to site works. Milbank Concrete Products has made significant investments at its manufacturing facility in Essex with an aim of lowering its scope 1 & 2 emissions, with solar panels powering 50% of factory operations, fully electric forklift trucks, and a carbon neutral wood pellet boiler to cure its concrete beds. Since 2018, the business has successfully reduced its CO2 emissions by over 55%, with plans for net-zero by 2030, 20 years ahead of government targets.

Lee Cowen, Managing Director of Milbank Concrete Products, said – “Our aim is to be the most sustainable supplier of precast concrete products. While we have achieved significant milestones in recent years, our commitment to sustainability remains unwavering, and I am beyond proud to be part of such a passionate team that’s making all of this possible. We understand the impact our industry has on the environment and we’re leaving no stone unturned in making changes for the better. This is the first of many installations delivered and installed with 100% renewable biofuel, and I look forward to supporting new and existing customers with many more.”

HVO fuel is a form of renewable diesel created from recycled sustainable vegetable oils. Unlike traditional diesel fuel derived from crude oil, HVO fuel offers significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, studies show HVO can achieve greenhouse gas reductions of over 90% compared to standard diesel, while producing little to no smoke.

There are several compelling reasons to choose HVO fuel over traditional diesel:

Reduced Carbon Footprint: HVO fuel offers substantial reductions in CO2 emissions, contributing to a greener construction process.
Sustainable Source: Derived from plant-based materials, HVO is a renewable resource unlike the finite reserves of crude oil.
Performance: HVO fuel performs similarly to traditional diesel in terms of power and efficiency, allowing for seamless integration into existing construction equipment.
Air Quality: Unlike regular diesel, HVO fuel burns almost smoke/fumeless. This provides a significant improvement for machinery operators on site.

The construction industry is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting innovative solutions like 100% HVO fuel installations, Milbank Concrete Products is demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. This approach paves the way for a more sustainable future in construction, minimising environmental impact while delivering high-quality precast concrete solutions for its customers.

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Persimmon Invests in Top Hat

UK-based developer, Persimmon, has invested in Top Hat – a leading modular house builder. This strategic investment is set to revolutionise the construction industry by improving the speed, efficiency, and quality of building modular homes.

Persimmon’s investment in Top Hat will enable the modular home builder to scale its operations and increase production to meet the growing demand for affordable, high-quality homes. Top Hat’s innovative technology allows for the construction of modular homes to be carried out in a controlled environment, ensuring consistent quality while reducing construction waste.

With this investment, Persimmon is tapping into the rising popularity of modular homes, which are an excellent alternative to traditional homebuilding. Modular homes are built in a factory and assembled on-site, reducing construction time by up to 50% while also reducing the environmental impact of building. The investment also aligns with Persimmon’s commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.

Top Hat’s modular building system allows for customisation of homes, giving homeowners the freedom to design their dream home. The modular design process also ensures that the final product is structurally sound and energy-efficient, with high-performance insulation and windows, which can save homeowners money on energy bills.

With this investment, Top Hat can now accelerate its growth and will begin production from its cutting-edge 650,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Corby, Northampton in 2024.

Jordan Rosenhaus, CEO and Founder at TopHat, said: “Today’s announcement is testament to the innovative approach that TopHat continues to take to house building and marks a step-change for the future of housing.

“It has been clear for some time that designing and building green, beautiful homes in factories is a critical part of solving the housing crisis – and today’s announcement will enable TopHat to reach the scale where the new generation of modular homes can be made available to everyone.”

Dean Finch, Group Chief Executive at Persimmon, said: “Persimmon is delighted to announce this partnership, combining the country’s most innovative modular manufacturer with the most cost-effective volume house builder.

“This investment provides Persimmon with guaranteed access to very energy-efficient volumetric modular units as well as TopHat’s innovative brick façade to use with our Space4 timber frame products.

“This will provide further build efficiencies, manage the growing challenge of labour shortages in key trades and expand our product range for customers. Combining our complementary industry-leading capabilities alongside other significant new investment makes me excited for the opportunities ahead.”

House Building News

The BBC returns with season two of Brickies

BBC Three’s Brickies is back for another season shining a light on life on site.

The first episode of series two of the popular docuseries, which follows the lives and loves of young recruits at Derby-based Hodgkinson Builders, airs at 9pm on Monday.

The full series is also available to view on BBC iPlayer on the same day.

Keeping the brickies in check is site manager Jack Smith. He said: “There are a few new faces – new apprentices and new labourers this time around.

“The show continues to follow the lives of brickies and labourers as they earn money and pursue jobs and careers.”

The programme proved so popular that earlier this year Brickies was up against Love Island in the British Broadcast Awards.

Smith said: “Going to the awards night was nice – it makes you realise how big the show’s been. Getting nominated against Love Island, it’s like ‘all of a sudden, this is really happening’. We just keep riding the wave of it and seeing where the show goes – hopefully there will be a Series three.”

Ian Hodgkinson, founder and managing director of Pride Park-based Hodgkinson Builders said: “To be asked to take part in a second series just proves how popular the show is. The reception received from Series one was absolutely phenomenal.

“Being a part of it has been so much fun, but it’s also been a fantastic platform in spreading the word about bricklaying as a career and the aspirations of our young workers.”

Source: Construction Enquirer

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