New Mandatory Housing Targets Set by UK Government: Aiming for 1.5 Million New Homes

The UK's new government has set mandatory housing targets for councils in England to deliver 1.5 million homes by the next election. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasizes planning reforms to drive growth, with a new annual target of 370,000 houses. Controversial changes include adjustments in London’s targets and revising the National Planning Policy Framework.

The UK government has announced mandatory housing targets for councils in England, aiming to deliver 1.5 million new homes by the next election. This initiative, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, features planning reforms designed to stimulate Britain's growth.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner disclosed that the new target would be 370,000 houses annually, an increase from the previous 300,000 target. She admitted the plans might be controversial but deemed them essential for the nation's renewal.

Despite the ambitious goals, Rayner highlighted the current underperformance with fewer than 200,000 homes built this year. London's housing target has been adjusted to 80,000 annually, down from 100,000. The government also plans an eight-week consultation on the National Planning Policy Framework to expedite infrastructure and renewable energy projects.

(With inputs from agencies.)