Sajid Javid

Independent housebuilding review gets underway



An independent review into understanding why a significant number of homes have not been built – despite having planning permission – has commenced.


First announced in the Autumn Budget, the review will look to explain the gap between the number of planning applications gaining consent and the number of properties built in areas of high demand.

The review is being overseen by a panel of experts and is led by its chairman Sir Oliver Letwin MP.

At present, once planning permission has been granted, there are a number of factors which can delay the commencement of construction, with the independent review striving to determine what these are.

As of July 2016, just over half of the 684,000 homes with planning permission had been completed.

The review aims to identify the main causes of the housing shortfall and will recommend practical steps to increase the speed of build out.

“This government is serious about finding ways to increase the speed of build out as well as tackling the complicated issues surrounding it,” said Sir Letwin.

“That’s why we have set up this diverse panel to help me test my analysis and to make practical, non-partisan recommendations, as we look to increase housing supply that’s consistent with a stable UK housing market.”

Sajid Javid, housing secretary (pictured above), added: “We are determined to build the homes this country needs, but currently there is still a significant gap between the number of planning permissions being granted and the number of homes built.

“This review is vital to helping us understand how we can build more homes quickly.

“All parties have a role to play in closing the gap and I look forward to receiving Oliver’s findings.”



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