June 2023
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This conference brought policymakers and stakeholders together to review the housing market in England, and discuss priorities for new developments and expanding the housing supply.
With the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill progressing through Parliament, and ongoing consultation on reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework, delegates considered the position and health of the national housing market following the pandemic, challenges caused by recent economic instability, and the resulting impact on development prospects and incentives.
In light of the removal of mandatory targets, it was an opportunity to assess the design and implementation of local strategies, including proposed reforms to planning in the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill, such as:
- increasing community engagement
- targeting areas of high demand
- balancing new developments with environmental protection
Discussion also explored priorities for affordable housing, including proposed funding mechanisms such as the Infrastructure Levy, and what is needed from mortgage products, lenders and developers to progress and expand routes into home-ownership.
Further sessions looked at tackling the wider challenges posed by the rise in mortgage rates following the September 2022 mini budget, and meeting housing requirements to drive economic growth.
Overall, the agenda included discussion on:
- the housing market: policy priorities for housing supply - responding to economic challenges and trends - key issues for developing the new builds market
- affordable housing: addressing the recent shortfall - increasing availability - the impact of a proposed Infrastructure Levy - coordinating planning - improving cooperation between central and local government
- planning: reforms to the system - delivering local plans - engaging with residents - moving forward with system digitisation - protecting the natural environment
- the impact of growth on housing needs: addressing regional and geographic variations in the construction of new homes
- routes to home-ownership: developing effective mortgage products and options which take into account current economic conditions - access to sales guidance
The conference was an opportunity for stakeholders to consider the issues alongside key policy officials who attended from the Cabinet Office; DfE; DLUHC; DfT; DWP; Home Office; Homes England; LUHC Committee; MCA; and the NAO - as well as parliamentary pass-holders from The House of Commons.
