The government’s recent announcement regarding housing plans has sparked both hope and apprehension across the UK.
While addressing the housing crisis is essential, local authorities will find themselves at the forefront of implementing these ambitious proposals, through the plan making and regulatory processes. In this article, we explore the challenges they face, and the delicate balance required to turn blueprint into reality.
Increased pressure on infrastructure
As housing developments expand, local councils grapple with the strain on existing infrastructure. Roads, utilities, schools, and healthcare facilities must keep pace with housing growth. Balancing these demands while maintaining quality services becomes a critical challenge. Infrastructure Development Plans (IDPs) are essential to understand the current position and the impact on future growth. An IDP identifies requirements across a borough, specifying what is needed, where and when. It covers everything from waste, transport, education, utilities, health, culture, sports, emergency services to green infrastructure.
Budget constraints
Operating within tight budgets, local authorities face the challenge of securing additional funding for planning, enforcement, and community services. Striking a balance between housing provision and other essential services is no easy task. Discretionary revenue, such as Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs), can help with budgets. PPAs are agreements between applicants and local planning authorities that clarify requirements and timelines, aiding in the development of high-quality proposals while engaging stakeholders and resolving policy conflicts.
Community engagement and NIMBYism
Local residents often resist new housing developments due to concerns about traffic, noise, and changes to their neighborhoods. Local authorities must navigate community feedback, address objections transparently, and foster constructive dialogue. Government proposals suggest a shift to a planning system where consultees can only comment on the nature of schemes deemed suitable in principle, reducing the scope for objections. The focus should be on constructive dialogue about aspects that can be influenced and achieving high levels of engagement through various means.
Land availability
Finding suitable land for housing remains a challenge. Councils in England will be expected to prioritise building on brownfield sites and poor-quality areas in the green belt - known as the ‘grey belt’. Brownfield sites may need remediation and the environmental impact must be considered. Evidence through Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessments and green belt reviews is critical to ensure a plan-led approach to these matters.
Affordability and social housing
Ensuring affordable housing options is crucial. Balancing market-rate housing with social housing to meet the needs of vulnerable populations while maintaining a mix of housing types requires strategic planning. Assessing the viability of affordable housing is crucial.
Planning permission and legal challenges
Navigating legal processes, consultations and potential appeals for planning permission requires efficiency and adherence to regulations. These processes are becoming more complex with new requirements around net zero, nutrients and other environmental considerations.
Strategic planning and long-term vision
Housing plans require thinking beyond short-term gains. Consider long-term impacts on economic growth, environmental sustainability and quality of life. Cross-boundary and strategic planning are essential, with regard for housing market areas.
Net zero and sustainable housing
Achieving net zero targets is increasingly important in housing development. Local councils have specific targets around affordable and net zero housing. Implementing green energy solutions in social housing can provide free or discounted energy sources and sustainable building practices are essential to meet these goals and ensure a greener future for all.
Ready to tackle housing challenges head-on?
The housing plans present both opportunities and obstacles. Local authorities play a pivotal role in shaping our housing landscape. Collaborative efforts, adaptive strategies, and community involvement are essential for successful implementation.
At Capita, we blend innovation with expert guidance to create resilient, safe, and thriving places. Our focus is on transforming and regenerating spaces for tomorrow, all while helping to find and deliver financial savings and efficiencies.
Our experts are here to help you create a robust housing strategy aligned with long-term vision, balance housing growth with essential services, minimise strain on existing resources, and to explore innovative funding models to support sustainable housing initiatives.
To delve deeper into how we can support your local authority, contact me at stephen.ottewell@capita.com.
Stephen Ottewell
Director of Business Development
Steve is a chartered town planner with over 15 years’ experience across the private and public sector. Steve has worked for Capita for over 12 years in various technical and managerial positions, most recently taking on overall responsibility for all our planning teams within local government.
