Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has announced the launch of a task force aimed at creating a series of new towns across the UK, as part of the government’s push to address the country’s housing crisis.
In a statement, Ms Rayner, who also serves as the housing secretary, emphasized the need for urgent action to tackle high levels of homelessness, over one million households on social housing waiting lists, and rising private rents.
The task force, chaired by Sir Michael Lyons and supported by housing economist Dame Kate Barker, will work with local communities to identify suitable locations for the new towns, which are expected to house at least 10,000 homes each.
Ms Rayner also announced the reintroduction of mandatory housing targets for local authorities, with an annual target of over 370,000 homes, a significant increase from the previous target of 300,000.
Addressing concerns about potential opposition from Labour MPs and councils, Ms Rayner stated that the new targets reflect the party’s manifesto pledge of 1.5 million new homes and that all areas must recognize the urgent need for housing and take action.
To ensure that the new towns are well-designed, sustainable, and accessible, the government will implement a “new towns code” that will hold developers accountable for meeting infrastructure and public service standards.
As part of the planning shake-up, the government will also change the method used to calculate housing needs in an area to better reflect the urgency of supply. Additionally, 50% of new housing must be affordable, with a focus on social rent.
The government will also allocate £450 million from the local authority housing fund to provide 2,000 new homes, which Ms Rayner described as a “radical” and “urgent” plan.
More than 30 home builders have expressed their support for the reintroduction of mandatory housing targets and the release of “grey belt” land, which includes underutilized areas of green belt land such as petrol stations and car parks.
The Conservatives have accused Labour of allowing the construction of “1.5 million ugly homes” as part of the new planning reforms. However, Ms Rayner emphasized the importance of addressing the housing crisis and ensuring that these new homes are accessible and affordable for all individuals and families in need.
