Government pledges to build 1.5 million homes by 2029

In England, Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed a comprehensive strategy to address a critical housing shortage on February 13, 2025. The initiative entails the consideration of over 100 sites for the development of new towns, intending to construct 1.5 million homes by 2029. This approach is framed as the largest housebuilding program since the aftermath of World War II. Localities near London, the south, and the east are among the primary areas identified for these urban developments. Starmer criticized the so-called NIMBYs—those against new construction in their neighborhoods—indicating that their resistance has significantly hindered housing development efforts. He announced that plans would include a blueprint for the anticipated new towns, featuring essential community facilities such as doctor's surgeries, schools, and effective public transportation systems. Additionally, the government emphasizes that the new towns will not only provide substantial quantities of affordable housing but will also prioritize aesthetic appeal and green spaces. By ensuring access to vital services and infrastructure, the new towns aim to foster attractive environments for families and individuals looking to enter the housing market. The announcements are seen as strategic efforts to overcome barriers that hindered previous developments. Starmer reiterated a commitment to utilizing all available resources to expedite housing construction and stated that plans to construct more homes would also involve reevaluating and potentially overriding local environmental concerns. This active stance aims to respond to the ongoing decline in housing affordability, ultimately aiming to secure home ownership opportunities for younger generations.