Accelerator initiative could unlock new homes

Hundreds of thousands of new homes stuck in the planning system or partially built will be accelerated to help end the housing crisis and drive growth, thanks to the New Homes Accelerator initiative launched by the Deputy Prime Minister.   

An experienced team from the Ministry of Housing and Homes England will work across government and with local councils to accelerate the buildout of housing schemes delayed by planning and red tape to drive economic growth across every part of the country.

Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the Royal Town Planning Institute said:

“Additional support for the planning system such as the New Homes Accelerator could help to unlock certain sites that have been impacted by the diminishing resources we have seen over the past decade.

"We know that local planning authorities are incredibly stretched. If delivered well and with proper community engagement this initiative could unlock new homes for communities around the country.

“However, to ensure the long-term sustainability of the planning system as a vital public service and driver of growth, MHCLG needs to ensure that these interventions also build local planning teams’ long-term capacity. Developing innovative approaches to service delivery will be an important part of this.”

“The RTPI is seeking its members’ views on the government’s current planning reform consultation, including its proposals on planning fees. Once our members have had their say we will be submitting a full response to the Government.”