Independent review of house building barriers
On 14th January 2018, a panel of experts was unveiled by the government to investigate why so much housing that has planning permission has not actually been built.
Originally announced in the Autumn Budget 2017, and set up by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), the independent review considered why hundreds of thousands of homes have not been built in high demand areas despite planning permission having been granted.
The review was led by Sir Oliver Letwin, and examined factors that prevent the start of developments or delay delivery. It recommended practical steps for tackling problems and increasing the speed of building. It also investigated issues which may discourage housebuilding or the regeneration of complex sites and how they can be avoided.
The review was conducted in 2 phases:
- Phase 1: Will seek to identify the main problems by reviewing large housing sites where planning permission has already been granted. This is currently under way and will be published in an interim report.
- Phase 2: Will make recommendations on practical steps to increase the speed of build out, which will be published in the full report.
For more information, see Independent review of build out: final report.
The panel included:
- Richard Ehrman – author, small commercial property developer and former journalist.
- Lord Jitesh Gadhia – Member of the House of Lords and investment banker.
- Lord John Hutton – Labour Peer and former Secretary of State.
- Rt Hon Baroness Usha Prashar CBE, PC – Crossbench Peer.
- Christine Whitehead – Emeritus Professor of Housing Economics at London School of Economics.
Sir Oliver Letwin, Chairman of the Review Panel, said:
"This government is serious about finding ways to increase the speed of build out as well as tackling the complicated issues surrounding it. That’s why we have set up this diverse panel to help me test my analysis and to make practical, non-partisan recommendations, as we look to increase housing supply that’s consistent with a stable UK housing market."
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).