Britain announced a major overhaul of its planning system to boost growth and build 1.5 million homes in five years. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the current planning system a “chokehold” on growth and pledged bold reforms.
“The housing crisis means the dream of homeownership feels distant for many,” Starmer said. “Our plan puts builders, not blockers, first. We’ll fix the broken system, provide homes for working families, and drive growth.”
The new plan requires local authorities to set housebuilding timetables within 12 weeks or face government intervention. It also introduces mandatory housing targets, prioritizing areas with the least affordable housing.
The Local Government Association welcomed reforms but stressed the need to address workforce shortages, construction costs, and local councils’ financial health. “Faster planning decisions alone won’t guarantee more houses,” it stated.
The move aims to simplify approvals, fast-track developments, and increase home availability, supporting the broader goal of economic growth and affordable housing for all.
