The Impact of the General Election on the Built Environment
Published: 02/07/2024
The announcement of the general election has introduced a period of uncertainty across the built environment sector. Both the Conservative and Labour parties have outlined plans that could significantly impact this sector, particularly concerning planning reforms, housing targets, and building safety regulations.
Planning Reforms and Housing Targets
There is some degree of overlap in manifesto focus between the Conservatives and Labour. Both major parties have committed to ambitious housing programs, promising the delivery of 1.6 million and 1.5 million homes in England. These targets highlight a shared recognition of the housing crisis and the need for extensive development to meet demand. Each party has also promised reforms to the planning system, which is crucial for streamlining the housing development process, plus the promise of the abolition of section 21 evictions.
Building Safety and Legislative Efforts
Building safety remains a top priority for developers, freeholders, investors and occupiers, following the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022 and high-profile incidents have highlighted the need for stringent regulations and effective enforcement. The current Minister for Housing, Planning and Building Safety, Lee Rowley, has emphasised ongoing government projects and legislative efforts, focusing on leasehold reform and stringent building safety regulations. These areas are critical for the future of the property sector, however, with the election approaching this week on 4th July, there’s a risk that these crucial projects might be delayed or altered depending on the election outcome. It’s essential that the momentum built around improving building safety standards is maintained, irrespective of political changes.
The Conservatives have committed to addressing historical building safety issues through developer-funded remediation programs. This initiative aims to build upon previous legislation that shields leaseholders from cladding remediation costs, a crucial measure following the Grenfell Tower tragedy. On the other hand, Labour has promised to take decisive action to enhance building safety, although specific measures have not been detailed in their manifesto. They have signalled an intention to expedite remediation works and bolster leaseholder protections.
The Liberal Democrats also contribute to this debate, advocating for the removal of certain types of cladding from all buildings at no cost to leaseholders, regardless of the building’s height. This proposal would represent a significant shift from the current industry guidelines outlined in PAS 9980.
Potential Impacts of the Election
The timing of the general election, set for 4th July, introduces uncertainty regarding the continuity and progress of current projects. The outcome will likely influence the future direction of key initiatives. If the government changes, there could be delays or alterations to existing plans, particularly concerning building safety and housing targets. It is crucial for the momentum around improving building safety standards to be maintained, regardless of the election results.
The built environment sector is poised at a critical juncture with the impending general election. While the core issues of building safety, planning reforms, and housing targets are prioritised across party lines, the specifics of their implementation and the stability of ongoing projects remain uncertain. Stakeholders in the built environment must stay informed and adaptable to navigate the potential changes that the election may bring.
Harris Associates is an award-winning RICS building and project consultancy providing advisory and project-led services across multiple sectors at every stage of a building's life cycle. We specialise in Compliance matters (including the requirements of the Building Safety Act), Building Surveying, Project Management, Landlord & Tenant matters Cost Management and are one of the premier providers of façade and cladding-related services, including PAS 9980 / FRAEWs, Construction Oversight / Clerk of Works services and the management of full façade remediation throughout the UK.
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Article by Ben Stewart, Associate
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Chioma Ibe
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