More good news on planning permission regulations in the United Kingdom
The latest Housing Pipeline report tells us that year on year planning approvals have risen a good 10% despite the first quarter of this year showing a decrease.
Over 40 000 permissions were given in the first quarter but it’s felt that this is not enough as 55 000 are required on average per quarter to meet housing needs in the UK.
‘Help to Buy’ equity loans is addressing the gap created by lack of deposits barriers and it seems that this is now encouraging the purchase of new homes.
More applications for new builds are being submitted and local authorities now have more responsibility for what’s happening in their area and to allocate land accordingly. This should help increase building to the required 220 000 a year in England from about 115 000.
Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman of the HBF, said;
“The overall trend in residential permissions is very positive and hopefully reflects both the principles of the new planning system and an improving market place. But we are still well short of the numbers needed and have to see continuous and steady increases over the coming quarters.
“The Government has unveiled some extremely positive measures aimed at boosting housing supply. The Help to Buy Equity Loan scheme is making a real difference on the demand side but it will only succeed in increasing house building if the planning system allows home builders to increase activity.
“The NPPF gives much more power to local authorities to take control over what is being built in their areas. It is though underpinned by a robust appeals system that developers can use when justified. Hopefully this will help ensure local authorities put proper plans in place that meet the responsibilities they have to their communities.
“Building the homes we need could take millions off social housing waiting lists and enable beleaguered first time buyers to get a foot on the ladder. It could also create half a million new jobs, and give the country a massive and much-needed economic boost.”
For many families looking to get into the low end and mid range housing market the new schemes are vital to maximise their deposits and reduce monthly repayments on the loan for the next 5 years.
For the builders and other professionals in the construction industry this marks the end of a long new build drought!
To find out more about recent planning permission regulations please read our blog.
