CIH responds to MHCLG’s plans to regenerate England's cities with new homes

Earlier today, new measures to level up England’s cities, recover from the pandemic and help provide much-needed new homes were set out by housing secretary, Robert Jenrick.

Responding to the announcement from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, James Prestwich, CIH director of policy and external affairs said:

“It’s really important that we get to a position where we are building the right homes, in the right places for the right prices. This should include investing in genuinely affordable homes for social rent where evidence shows they are most needed.

We understand the government’s desire to regenerate our high streets. Converting retail units into much-needed homes is one option but care needs to be taken to make sure that they are good quality homes which are fit for the future. It's absolutely essential that planning teams can shape those decisions and homes.

We must find a balance between easing affordability pressures in areas of high demand, particularly in London and the South East and use new supply as a driver for growth in other areas of the country. The revision of the 80/20 funding rule provides the potential to better achieve this and is to be welcomed."