RICS responds to government announcement on planning and housebuilding

31 July 2024

Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Angela Rayner announced the government’s plans to reform planning and housebuilding.

In response, RICS CEO Justin Young, stated:

“Securing adequate homes for the UK requires more than one solution, and it is encouraging to see many of them addressed today.

“Setting localised housing targets to ensure that what is needed is built in the right places and with the right infrastructure, and working with local authorities that know their areas better than anyone, will help secure the bold ambitions of Government as well as providing jobs and opportunities. It is further good news that local plans will be reviewed, and MHCLG will assist and step in where needed, as we have previously called for. Our professionals are at the heart of the built environment, covering planning, development, construction, and cost management, and are ready and equipped to help push these changes forward.

“We have been calling for a greenbelt review, and applaud the introduction of clear, golden rules for Greybelt. The proposed system of brown, grey, then green, should protect community spaces and secure needed but not unnecessary development.

“Planning reforms are a pullable policy lever for boosting economic productivity, and legislation that increases housing delivery across tenures, including affordable housing, will move the dial for those in need. We look forward to working with Government to secure the skills needed to make ambitions a reality, and await the long term housing strategy.”

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