With many reports suggesting that next week’s Spring Statement will deliver little in the way of new policy and instead focus largely on updated economic forecasts, there is an even greater need for practical measures that genuinely support confidence in the housing market.
If we are serious about restoring momentum, there are three areas where action could have a meaningful and lasting impact.
First, planning reform must move from rhetoric to delivery. Delays and inconsistency in the planning system have eroded trust across the sector. When developers and investors cannot rely on timely, transparent decisions, they hesitate to commit capital.
That uncertainty has contributed to a decline in planning applications over the past year and puts at risk the Government’s ambition to deliver 1.5 million new homes during this Parliament.
“The Spring Statement presents an opportunity to reinforce accountability within the planning system.”
The Spring Statement presents an opportunity to reinforce accountability within the planning system and introduce clearer, more predictable timeframes. Greater certainty would unlock confidence, encourage investment and help accelerate much-needed housing supply.
Second, we need a more flexible and proactive approach to regeneration, particularly through change-of-use measures.
Across the country, town centres continue to struggle with vacant and underused commercial buildings. These sites represent a missed opportunity – not only for housing delivery but for economic renewal.
REVITALISE HIGH STREETS
By making it easier to convert redundant commercial space into residential or mixed-use developments, Government can help revitalise high streets while simultaneously boosting supply. Practical planning support for town centre regeneration would attract private capital and strengthen local economies at a time when both need it.
Finally, housing delivery cannot increase without addressing the labour and skills gap. Labour shortages remain a clear constraint on housebuilding, directly limiting the pace at which homes can be delivered.
We need to rebalance the narrative around careers, promoting trades and vocational qualifications as strong and respected routes into well-paid employment, rather than university being seen as the default path.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
At the same time, developers require greater practical and financial support to scale operations, invest in training and manage rising costs.
Without rebuilding workforce capacity and backing those delivering homes on the ground, our housing ambitions will remain difficult to achieve.
Economic stability matters, but so does structural reform. If the Spring Statement is to bolster housing market confidence, it must address planning certainty, regeneration flexibility and skills investment.
These are the foundations on which sustainable supply – and long-term market resilience – depend.
