London Boroughs reaffirm support for housing growth
Following the Deputy Prime Minister’s recent announcement on reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), London boroughs have reiterated their strong commitment to increasing housing development. The capital faces the most intense housing pressures in the country, with London Councils estimating that one in 50 Londoners is currently homeless and living in temporary accommodation. This includes at least one homeless child in every London classroom. Moreover, over 320,000 households are currently on waiting lists for social housing in the city.
For years, London boroughs have pushed to accelerate housebuilding as a strategy to foster economic growth and tackle the ongoing homelessness crisis. London Councils highlight a significant pipeline of 286,000 homes that have already been granted planning permission but are yet to be built, underscoring the pressing need to overcome the obstacles impeding housing delivery.
The Deputy Prime Minister’s announcement that councils will gain greater flexibility in using funds generated from Right to Buy council house sales was met with approval by the cross-party group. Boroughs have long advocated for fewer restrictions on the use of these receipts, arguing that the current limitations hinder their ability to reinvest in local housing. They contend that too much of the revenue is redirected to the Treasury, reducing the funds available for building replacement homes.
Cllr Peter Mason, London Councils’ Executive Member for Planning & Skills, expressed his support for the government’s focus on boosting housebuilding, particularly the development of affordable and social housing.
“There is no doubt that more homes are urgently needed in London and across the country,” Cllr Mason stated. “Boroughs are strongly pro-housing growth and welcome the government’s emphasis on accelerating housebuilding.”
He also praised the new flexibilities regarding Right to Buy sales receipts, calling them “a big step in the right direction.” He emphasized that reducing restrictions will enable more of the funds from council house sales to be reinvested locally, aiding in the construction of replacement homes.
However, Cllr Mason also highlighted the challenges that have stalled the construction of new homes in the capital. While London boroughs have a strong track record in granting planning permission, he stressed the need for collaboration with the government to address these issues. In addition to improving the planning system, he called for action on other key factors hindering housebuilding, including the lack of local infrastructure, shortages in construction skills, and insufficient long-term funding for affordable homes.
