James Vernor-Miles comments on the impact of housing, planning and property reforms on landlords in Property in Practice Magazine
James’ comments were published in The Law Society’s Property in Practice magazine, September 2024, and can be seen here.
James Vernor-Miles, Partner in our Residential Property department, discusses the wide-ranging housing and planning reforms announced in the King’s Speech.
James comments focus on the proposed Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which aims to reintroduce mandatory housebuilding targets, deliver 1.5 million new homes, and reform the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) to include ‘grey belt’ areas. These measures are designed to address the UK’s chronic housing shortage and streamline the planning process, with additional planning officers promised to support delivery.
James notes that while these proposals are ambitious, their success will depend heavily on practical implementation and local authority capacity. He highlights that the designation of ‘grey belt’ land areas that are not quite green belt but still protected could unlock new development opportunities, but may also face resistance from local communities. The reintroduction of housing targets is seen as a positive step, but James cautions that without adequate infrastructure and local services, new developments risk being unsustainable or poorly integrated into existing communities.
Looking ahead, James emphasises the importance of collaboration between government, developers, and local authorities to ensure the reforms translate into real progress. He also points out that the property sector will need clear guidance and consistent policy to navigate these changes effectively. While the reforms offer potential for revitalising the housing market, James concludes that their impact will ultimately depend on how swiftly and coherently they are implemented across the country.
Read the full article on The Law Society website [external link].