Representatives from the groups laid out the argument when meeting Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, parliamentary under-secretary of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).
The government was urged to consider providing grants for asset conversions in the same way they do for new affordable homes.
In addition, representatives from the NFB and Equans proposed strategies to ensure the construction of social housing is viable and more attractive to institutional investors.
Here, Design Guides were cited as one mechanism to ensure conversions were of high quality.
“It is always a privilege to represent our members when speaking to the government,” said Mark Wakeford, chair at the NFB.
“The opportunity to support their objectives, particularly achieving well designed and built social housing, is one that NFB members are very well positioned to do.
“When we meet experienced, intelligent politicians who are keen to listen, learn and collaborate, we see a clear opportunity to make a difference.”
David Mellor, development director at Equans, added: “The government has been clear in its aim to significantly increase the UK’s affordable housing stock.
“We believe that working in partnership and thinking innovatively are key to achieving these ambitious targets, and we’re delighted to have had the opportunity to discuss our new social and affordable housing solutions with our partners today.”
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