Britain completed 31,770 homes in the final quarter of last year, as the government pushes on with its drive to build 1.5 houses over the next five years.
The number of homes built between last October and December was a 32% jump on a year ago, but 14% lower than the previous quarter, when 37,070 dwellings were completed, Office for National Statistics data shows.
The data presents a mixed picture for the new Labour government, elected in July, as it bids to unblock planning restrictions to build new homes. The measure is a key part of its growth strategy.
Pocket Living chief executive Paul Rickard says: “By any measure these are a disappointing set of figures and continue to highlight the massive challenge the government has in delivering 1.5m new homes within the next four years.
“That said, the government set a target of 300,000 homes a year knowing that it wouldn’t be easy.
“Planning reform is only part of the answer. With one in three approved homes still unbuilt since 2015 and viability now beyond breaking point, it’s time for policymakers to work with the sector to find real, workable solutions.
Rickard adds: “This must include policies to encourage an SME housebuilding renaissance, maximising the opportunities of devolution and Homes England reform, introducing flexibility on affordable tenure, using the forthcoming spending review and housing strategy as a major delivery reset moment, and applying a proportionality test for new and existing regulations.”
Deputy Prime Minister and housing secretary Angela Rayner announced that major infrastructure projects will on average be delivered at least a year faster, as the government moved to scrap some statutory consultations tied to large developments.
She said the move would pave the way for new roads, railways, and clean energy projects all beneficial to new housing projects.
Rayner added: “Critical national infrastructure is key to Britain’s future and security – so we can’t afford to have projects held up by tiresome requirements and uncertainty, caused by a system that is not working for communities or developers and holding back our true potential.”
The government’s key Planning and Infrastructure Bill is currently making its way through Parliament.
