Commercial property experts at Vail Williams have called for the government to take strong next steps to build on the “good start” of the summer Budget and the government’s growth plan, Fixing the Foundations: Creating a more prosperous nation.
James Williams, Vail Williams Senior Planner, said: “The Budget and subsequent growth plan were very welcome with their moves to support the UK economy by simplifying the planning system and a commitment to deliver the extra new homes that are so desperately needed.
“These policies are only a start, however – now we really need to see the government’s next steps to build further on these positive signals. We’ve heard warm words before; we need action and soon.”
“One of the issues that needs expanding on is the promise to make it easier to build on brownfield land. By itself, this will not be enough to deliver the sheer quantity of homes we need.”
“What will help is the new requirement for Local Plans and prompt decision-making by local authorities. However, it is the next steps that are important both planning and legal departments must be adequately resourced to play their part in boosting housing delivery as the ‘powerhouse’ to deliver on the ground.”
“The Budget was a good start. Now we eagerly await further details from the government to see if it lives up to its growth promise and can also balance the tension between the growth agenda and localism.”
