The UK government faces significant challenges in addressing London’s ongoing housing shortage, according to Craig Carson, Managing Director of Barratt West London.
Reflecting on the past year and looking ahead to 2025, Carson acknowledges the complexity of the task ahead, particularly with the government’s ambitious target to build 80,000 new homes annually in the capital.
Carson highlights that, while the target is ambitious, it signifies a shared vision between the government and housebuilders to address the growing demand for housing in London.
He emphasises, however, that the government needs to take stronger action to support housebuilders at every stage of the process to ensure this vision is realised.
The need for immediate government support for housebuilders
Carson advocates for further government measures that go beyond just setting targets.
“The government must introduce policies that will keep the homebuying and selling market moving,” he says. “This means supporting housebuilders from the ground up and ensuring there are streamlined processes to get new developments off the ground.”
He also points to the introduction of the National Planning Policy Framework and new towns funding as positive steps in the right direction. These initiatives, according to Carson, show the government’s recognition of the importance of housing for both social well-being and economic growth.
What does the grey-belt mean? How can we unlock its potential?
As the debate around the so-called ‘grey-belt’ continues to intensify, Carson believes it’s crucial that the government clearly defines this land at both a national and Greater London Authority (GLA) level.
The grey-belt, often considered land that does not serve the primary purposes of greenbelt areas, could play a pivotal role in solving some of the housing supply issues facing the capital.
Carson stresses that the government must work closely with housebuilders to implement planning reforms that will transform disused areas into thriving communities.
“I would like to see Labour define exactly what the grey-belt means and how we can begin to unlock its potential. This could be a game-changer for the housing market in London,” he adds.