Many more new homes must be built
Gove stated that every family should have a safe, decent, warm home and that many more young people should be able to own a home of their own – acknowledging that more must be done to ensure this becomes a reality.
He claimed the UK Government was on track to deliver its target of one million homes during this Parliament, which will be energy efficient and carbon neutral. He also reiterated plans to build in the hearts of towns and cities and on brownfield land, which the UK Government believes will cut commuting times, revitalise communities and protect the green belt.
Housing supply at the centre of levelling up plans
Michael Gove MP, Secretary of State for Levelling Up outlined plans to unleash building on underused sites in high-demand regions, along with a new design code to improve the quality of new homes, with the UK Government committing to passing the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill and updates to the National Planning Policy Framework later in 2023.
Renters Reform Bill still on the table
Earlier at the Conference, both Gove and Housing Minister Rachael Maclean stated at fringe meetings that the Renters Reform Bill would receive its second reading in the Commons by the end of 2023. However, Gove’s failure to mention the Bill in such a high-profile speech has done nothing to reassure property professionals.
Maclean also confirmed that a housing court for landlords to help speed-up the evictions process, which featured in early consultations, will not be part of the Bill. She went on to explain that although many stakeholders have lobbied for a dedicated court, introducing one would divert resources from other parts of the justice system.
The Conservative Party’s record in government means we are continuing to talk about building more homes that the country desperately needs.
Reforming planning, new homes to net zero and more affordable places to live are vital but we need action now. Furthermore, the party of home ownership also needs to be the party of renting which means a whole-scale review of taxes impacting landlords and investment in the private rented sector.
The money to support regional development is welcome but the proportion of towns that will receive support is a drop in the ocean compared to what is needed.
