Under the government’s new National Planning Policy Framework, there will be a default ‘yes’ for homes within reasonable walking distance of well-connected stations, alongside new minimum expectations for how much housing should be built in these areas.

It means that thousands of new homes will be built around public transport, England’s train, tram and underground stations under new planning rules.

The changes build on measures announced last week to back farmers and rural businesses, including making it easier to deliver reservoirs, greenhouses, polytunnels and farm shops.

Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said: “A safe, secure home is the foundation of opportunity, but too many people are being priced out of the communities where they want to live and work.

“By unlocking thousands of homes around well-connected transport hubs, we’re helping people live closer to work, school and the services they rely on, while backing local businesses and driving growth in our communities.

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“That’s how we’ll tackle the housing crisis and raise living standards for people in every corner of the country.”

Chancellor John Healey added: “Making it easier for people to buy their own home is about more than a house.

“It is about security and families feeling they have a place they can truly call their own.

“We want to drive growth in every postcode and help more working people into home ownership.

“A secure home is the heart of all our lives, helping people put down roots, plan for the future and build a good life for themselves and their families.

“This is about creating opportunity, prosperity and stronger communities across the country.”

Stephen Teagle, chief executive for partnerships at Vistry Group, said: "We welcome today’s announcement, which by prioritising developments near stations will enable more homes to be built in well-connected places where people want to live.

“Planning applications take far too long to process and the government’s plans to streamline requirements, with clear national policies, will reduce the burden on local authorities and address many of the bottlenecks that hold up housing delivery.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the government and local partners to build more affordable homes where they are needed most.”