CIH responds to Chancellor’s ‘housing package’ at the forthcoming Budget

On 26 October the Chancellor announced a package of housing measures ahead of the Budget on 30 October.

Rachael Williamson, head of policy and external affairs, welcomed this, noting: “We agree with the government that we need to fix the housing crisis and strongly welcome its commitment to increase investment in affordable and social housing in the forthcoming Budget and subsequent Spending Review.

"The £500 million top-up to the Affordable Homes Programme is essential for maintaining momentum and keeping the programme running in the immediate term, ahead of the new funding needed in the spring. The £128 million funding for new housing projects is also welcome and demonstrates an understanding of the urgent need for more affordable homes and long-term solutions that support the sector in building and maintaining quality housing.

"This focus on creating new affordable social homes, alongside measures to improve and protect existing ones through Right to Buy reforms and increased rent stability which we've long called for, represents a positive step towards tackling our broken housing system. Long-term certainty is essential for the social housing sector to effectively plan and invest so the introduction of a 5-year rent settlement is welcome. However, to fully support effective planning and sustainable investment, a 10-year settlement is needed. This level of certainty would empower housing providers to make the long-term commitments required to deliver the affordable homes that our communities urgently need and provide greater transparency for residents.

"We share the government’s vision of a fairer housing system that can empower people with safe, affordable, and quality homes and look forward to working together to contribute to its Housing Strategy.”