In a groundbreaking move, the UK government has announced sweeping reforms aimed at facilitating the construction of thousands of social and affordable homes. As part of the long-term plan for housing, councils across the country will now have the opportunity to acquire land for development at significantly reduced costs, thanks to the removal of ‘hope value’ through Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs).
Levelling Up Minister Jacob Young lauds the reforms, emphasising their potential to act as a catalyst for investment, drive regeneration, and address the pressing need for more housing. “Our changes will unlock more sites for affordable and social housing, supporting jobs and growing the economy,” he asserts.
Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, echoes these sentiments, highlighting the critical role of affordable housing in addressing the housing crisis. “Enabling local councils to buy cheaper land through Compulsory Purchase Orders will allow them to build more desperately needed affordable homes,” she emphasises.
The Levelling-up & Regeneration Act 2023 empowers bodies like Homes England and councils to apply for the removal of ‘hope value’ under certain conditions, provided the development serves the public interest and facilitates affordable or social housing, health, or educational uses.
Here at Inspire New Homes, we will continue to assist local authorities in navigating these reforms and unlocking development opportunities. With expertise in land acquisition processes and a track record of success, we offer strategic guidance to councils seeking to accelerate housing delivery.
By leveraging Compulsory Purchase Orders effectively, councils can revitalise communities, bring derelict land back into use, and pave the way for sustainable development.
Data underscores the urgency of action: according to recent figures, the UK faces a shortfall of over 1 million homes, exacerbating affordability challenges and housing inequality. With demand for social and affordable housing continuing to rise, the need for innovative solutions has never been greater.
Inspire New Homes’ consultancy services offer a tailored approach to addressing these challenges, providing councils with the tools and expertise needed to navigate the complexities of land acquisition and development. By collaborating with Inspire New Homes, local authorities can unlock their development aspirations, bring more new homes to market, and build thriving, inclusive communities for the future.
For councils looking to seize the opportunities presented by the government’s housing reforms, Inspire New Homes offers a strategic partnership dedicated to driving positive change and delivering tangible results. Together, we can build a brighter future for housing in the UK.
For more information please read the article on the gov.uk website and get in touch with the team to find out more.
