Latest data reveals strong growth in housebuilding

Figures released from the Department for Communities and Local Government show that housebuilding is at its highest level since 2008.

The latest data shows that the number of new build homes that have started on site has surged to a decade high, with 164,960 new homes started in the year to June 2017. And with more than 153,000 new homes completed during the same period, housebuilding is going from strength to strength.

Housebuilding is strong across the UK, with Gloucestershire, South Derbyshire and South Norfolk amongst the strongest areas in delivering high levels of starts.

The figures show an increase of 13% from 2016, with new build homes increasing by more than three-quarters since 2009.

Housebuilding is an important part of Government Strategy, with a White Paper released earlier this year on how to tackle the housing shortage across the UK. However, while private housebuilding is strengthening, the statistics also show that the number of affordable home starting on site is not as strong. Starts by housing associations were 19% lower when compared to the last quarter and completions 17% higher, and more needs to be done to progress this sector in order to meet government targets.

An additional £1.4Bn investment was announced for in the Autumn budget for the government’s affordable housing programme, bringing the total budget to £7.1Bn. Since 2010, almost 333,000 affordable homes have been delivered, including 240,000 affordable homes for rent.

Housing and Planning Minister Alok Sharma said: “Building more homes is an absolute priority for this government. Today’s figures are proof that we are getting Britain building again, with new housing starts reaching record levels since 2009.

“It’s vital we maintain this momentum to deliver more quality homes in the places that people want to live. Our housing white paper set out an ambitious package of long-term reforms to do just that.”

The figures are based on building control inspection data, submitted to the department by local authorities, the National House Building Council and independent inspectors.

 

If you would like to read more articles like this then please click here.

The post Latest data reveals strong growth in housebuilding appeared first on UK Construction Online.