Government to Announce Major Planning Overhaul for Affordable Housing

In a significant policy shift, the government is set to unveil a comprehensive overhaul of planning regulations aimed at increasing the construction of affordable homes. This initiative comes as the administration grapples with the economic and social challenges stemming from 14 years of Conservative governance. Labour's Deputy Leader Angela Rayner has criticized the previous government's legacy, describing it as "frankly scandalous," and has emphasized that addressing the housing crisis is her top priority. Rayner highlighted the urgent need for social and affordable housing, noting that the current housing shortage is dire. A government spokesperson acknowledged that the previous administration had made substantial financial commitments without a clear funding strategy. As Labour prepares for potentially contentious decisions, including tax increases and stringent spending measures in the upcoming autumn budget, they continue to hold the previous government accountable for the current economic landscape. Labour's track record on housing is notable, with nearly 363,000 new social rent homes built during their 13 years in power from 1997 to 2010, compared to just over 171,000 under Conservative rule since 2010. This disparity underscores Labour's commitment to revitalizing the housing sector, with sources close to Rayner indicating her determination to enhance social housing availability. As the government aims to address the housing crisis, they assert that their plans will not only facilitate the construction of homes but also stimulate economic growth across the country, marking a pivotal step towards achieving the ambitious goal of 1.5 million new homes.