Decisiveness and consistency will move the needle on the housing crisis

-David Meek, CEO, This Land

It is encouraging to see commentaries looking for certainty over who leads the country, and for clarity on future policies to solve the housing crisis, but the reality is likely rather less optimistic.

When Local Authorities demand solutions, but never in their community’s back yard, and a steady stream of Housing Ministers and policymakers state grandiose plans that have little or no chance of seeing the light of day, it is challenging to be encouraged by the lack of vision from any of the parties as we head into the General Election.

What is required is a more proactive and decisive approach that empowers decision makers to move at the pace required to start to change the tide, to respect and embrace the concerns and initiatives of stakeholders, and continue to ensure that the UK’s housing stock and infrastructure is fit for purpose.

What is required are experienced and well-resourced planning departments at local level, with decisive and committed apolitical long-term plans to move the housing crisis needle on a national level.

Similarly, when developers are rewarded with approvals, it is equally incumbent on them to deliver those schemes in a timely manner, rather than simply adding to their land banks or future projects.

Providing stronger, consistent guidance nationally on greenbelt and brownfield sites and robust infrastructure requirements would enhance the transparency of local decision making for planners, communities and developers alike.

Stability, consistency, transparency and commitment are all factors in enabling effective decision making for many sectors, not least for real estate and development. If the election on 4 July can deliver those, then the country’s ability to face the challenges of the housing crisis may appear to be more attainable.