Labour has released initial details about its new towns initiative, which aims to construct at least 10,000 homes in each of these new towns, with some expected to be
significantly larger. This initiative is part of the party's pledge to launch the largest housebuilding program since the post-war era, aiming to stimulate economic growth and rejuvenate Britain’s construction sector.
The announcement follows a major planning reform presented by Ashton-under-Lyne MP Angela Rayner in Parliament on July 30. Rayner, who serves as Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary, outlined plans to enforce mandatory local housing targets on councils, including some development on green belt land. Changes to the Right to Buy scheme were also proposed to aid councils in building more affordable housing.
In line with these reforms, the government has detailed the first wave of new towns to be established across the nation. These towns will operate under a ‘New Towns Code,’ which will enforce specific standards for developers, including targets for affordable housing.
The plan involves creating large, standalone communities and numerous urban extensions and regeneration projects. Approximately 40 percent of the housing in these new towns is projected to be affordable, with a focus on genuinely affordable social rented homes.
To oversee this ambitious project, Deputy Prime Minister Rayner has appointed Sir Michael Lyons as chair of the independent New Towns Taskforce, with leading housing economist Dame Kate Barker as his deputy. This task force will collaborate with local communities and present a final list of recommended locations to ministers within a year.
Rayner stated, "Our new towns will deliver housing fit for the future, shaping new communities with real character that people can be proud to call home." She emphasized that the task force, led by Sir Michael, will work closely with local residents to identify the best locations for these new developments, aiming to provide more homes, jobs, and green spaces.
Sir Michael expressed his commitment to the initiative, saying, "A new generation of new towns and large-scale urban extensions could significantly contribute to the Government’s plans for economic growth while providing new homes on a grand scale. Our mission begins today, and we will collaborate closely with local leaders, communities, and the broader development and investment sectors to ensure these new towns meet the needs of local people and are built in the right places."
This ambitious vision promises to revitalize the housing market and enhance the lives of working people in the coming years.