The Government has announced plans for new rules that would require homebuilders to commit to clear delivery timeframes as a condition for securing planning permission.Under the new proposals released today, Sunday 25 May, developers would have to commit to delivery timelines as a condition of planning permission and to submit annual progress reports to local authorities or face a ‘Delayed Homes Penalty’ worth thousands per unbuilt home.Neil Jefferson, Chief Executive at the Home Builders Federation, said: “Numerous independent reviews have concluded that home builders do not delay build out, not least the CMA's Market Study, published only last year.Jefferson added: “The reality is that developers only see a return on investment when they sell homes. Having purchased land and navigated the costly and bureaucratic planning process, there is no reason not to build and sell homes.Jefferson concluded: “If we are to tackle the housing crisis, Ministers need to focus on the actual reasons as to why home building levels are flatlining, which have largely been ignored - the lack of government support for first-time buyers that is suppressing demand, and the dearth of housing associations in the market for affordable homes.“Whilst the planning changes announced last year and the government’s ambition are very welcome, much more is needed if we are to get anywhere near the challenging target it has set.”
